Which historical concept is most relevant when examining patriarchal social orders and gender roles in China from the Han to the Qing Dynasty?

The concept of patterns of continuity and change is particularly relevant when examining patriarchal social orders and gender roles in China from the Han to the Qing Dynasty because it allows for an analysis of how these gender dynamics evolved and remained consistent over time. Throughout these dynasties, there was a notable persistence in certain Confucian values that emphasized male authority and female submission, shaping societal expectations and norms related to gender.

By focusing on patterns of continuity, one can observe how foundational Confucian principles maintained a dominant influence, making patriarchal structures central to family and social organization. For instance, practices such as foot-binding and the emphasis on male heirs persisted over centuries, reflecting continuity in gender roles. Meanwhile, examining change highlights specific shifts that occurred, particularly in response to external influences and internal reforms, such as the introduction of Western ideas in the late Qing period or adaptations to socio-economic changes.

This dual focus on continuity and change helps historians understand not just the enduring nature of patriarchal systems but also the contexts in which these systems were challenged or transformed, providing a nuanced view of gender in Chinese history over the vast timeline from the Han to the Qing Dynasty.