Why Is the Empress Compared to the Parrot?

Abstract

This article explores the construction of parrot imagery in Chinese literature from the late Han dynasty to the Tang-Song period. It identifies three key aspects of this process. First, the parrot is credited with different metaphorical qualities, and its symbolism becomes increasingly enriched. Second, the themes of parrot literature become more and more extensive as the bird’s image is skillfully employed for diverse literary purposes. Third, the parrot’s exoticism is gradually sinicized and incorporated into Chinese traditions; in some cases, the bird develops into a textual figure while certain physical traits are tactically overlooked. By examining the development of parrot imagery, this paper offers explanations for the association between Empress Wu Zetian and the parrot, as well as addressing some related questions.