'Broken Wings'. Bride trafficking literature and the law in China

Seminar paper from the year 2022 in the subject Gender Studies, grade: 1,3, University of Münster (Anglistik und Amerikanistik), course: Gender and Law, language: English, abstract: This paper explores the issue of bride trafficking in China, focusing on the interplay between literature and the legal system. Through an analysis of Jia Pingwa's novel 'Broken Wings,' the study examines the social and legal challenges faced by trafficked women in China. The text delves into the demographic imbalances and cultural practices that contribute to the prevalence of bride trafficking, highlighting the lack of effective legal protections for victims. By juxtaposing literary representation with real-world incidents, such as the viral TikTok video of a chained woman, the paper underscores the brutal realities of trafficking and the systemic failures in addressing these crimes. The analysis reveals how literature not only reflects but also influences societal attitudes towards gender and trafficking. The study critiques the inadequacies in the Chinese legal system, advocating for stronger penalties and better enforcement to protect victims. Ultimately, the paper calls for comprehensive social and legal reforms to address the deep-rooted issues of gender inequality and human trafficking.