In China, a 400-year-old women’s script finds new life with Gen Z
A centuries-old Chinese script created by women is gaining renewed interest among young people in the country.
Nushu, meaning “women’s script”, originated around 400 years ago in Jiangyong county, Hunan province.
It was developed by women barred from formal education, adapting Chinese characters to communicate through letters, songs and embroidery.
Traditionally passed down among women in rural communities, Nushu is now being learned in workshops and schools across China.
“Due to its uniqueness, elegance, and rarity, it seems to be quite highly regarded, especially among many students in the arts,” said Nushu teacher He Yuejuan in an interview with AFP.
Student Pan Shengwen said Nushu “essentially creates a sanctuary for us — a safe space where we can express our thoughts, confide in our sisters, and talk about anything.”
She added that the script allows participants to communicate in an environment where they feel understood and supported.
Some men are also taking up the script.
Animation student Tao Yuxi said he was learning Nushu to gain inspiration for his creative work despite his family’s initial confusion about why he was studying a script more commonly associated with women.
“It’s something that everyone should work to preserve — regardless of whether they are women or men,” he said.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
