Public Passions

Discover the gripping historical narrative of Public Passions by Eugenia Lean, published in 2007. This compelling book delves into the shocking events of 1935, when Shi Jianqiao, a Chinese woman, assassinated the infamous warlord Sun Chuanfang while he prayed in a Buddhist temple. Lean meticulously examines the sensational trial that followed, shedding light on the evolving social dynamics and the burgeoning sentiment of "public sympathy" in early twentieth-century China. Spanning 304 pages, this hardback edition is an essential read for anyone interested in Asian history, gender studies, and the complexities of legal history during a tumultuous period. Join Lean on a journey through a pivotal moment in Chinese history, where personal and political passions collide.