McCunn/Thousand Pieces of Gold

Abstract: A 3 page essay that examines Thousand Pieces of Gold, Ruthanne Lum McCunn's biographical account of a nineteenth century immigrant Chinese woman who survives extraordinary trials. The writer looks at why Lalu Nathoy initially refuses Charlie Bemis' offer of marriage. In a life where there has been little opportunity to experience anything but hardship, marriage holds the promise of stability and dignity. The writer argues that to understand why Lalu was reluctant to marry Bemis requires that the reader to look at the overall circumstances of this woman's life, as well as the cultural parameters of nineteenth century marriage. No additional sources cited.

---

Catagory:

Subcatagory: Biographies

---