Examines how homosexuality was accepted and condemned throughout Chinese history and whether it was seen as an alternative or supplement to hetrosexual relationships.
Male homosexuality was a common practice in Chinese history. Several sources document the extent of this practice through long periods of Chinese history. It was also widely depicted in Chinese literature. Common literary terms for homosexuality included longyang, fen tao zhi ai (sharing or eating a peach) and duanxiu or cut sleeve. With few exceptions, however, male homosexuality did not replace heterosexual marriage nor was it seen as an alternative to marriage. Even as a kind of supplement to marriage, male homosexuality was not universally accepted. Though common, it was condemned by many. It was also illegal in the Qing period. These themes are discussed in this paper.