Problem
You will be discussing the role of women in Chinese society with emphasis on silk making with your classmates. Read over the information on Chinese Sericulture and role of Women in Chinese Society. Consider the following questions: What exactly was the role of women in the production of silk? Did they benefit from being an integral part of sericulture? Review the material both in the link above and in the textbook and come to an opinion on why women failed to gain higher status despite their near monopoly over silk production. Does there appear to be a contradiction between the source of China's income during this period and the economic power of women in China? What other benefits might women receive from their work--benefits that might not be monetary but rather social or gender related benefits?