Author(s) :

Zeyi Li.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Motherhood under the patriarchal lens is always correlated with the identity of domestic labor and caregiver without power in their hands. However, this essay uses a contemporary model of matrilineal society, the Mosuo people are mostly categorised in the Chinese ethnic group Na, to present a different perspective on the role of the mother, with similar domestic roles but different living situations, and have power, authority, and respect. This essay will investigate how motherhood is constructed and experienced in matriarchal societies, which differ from patriarchal societies and traditional families, particularly in China, focusing on the societal construction and values reflected in their daily behaviors. This essay combines primary and secondary research methods, including an analysis of an unstructured interview and a video recording, as well as a review of literature on matriarchal societies, offering a broad and unique insight into mothers in a Matrilineal society. Mothers in a matrilineal society are more collective and well-respected, with great freedom due to the different family construction, societal values, and also subtly reflected in their unique language. The concept of language control, combined with social and family construction, offers a new insight into the Mosuo matriarchal family and society, reflecting the culture and beliefs underlying their language, which highlights their respect for mothers and leads to the honor of female identity.