'Good Wife, Wise Mother' Ideology and the Shaping of the Ideal Woman through State Women's Education in Manchukuo, 1932–1938

Abstract

This paper discusses the 'Good Wife, Wise Mother' concept and its significance in women’s education in Manchukuo, comparing the different origins in Japan and China. This research argues that 'Good Wife, Wise Mother' of the Japanese emphasized the importance of women’s education to raise children and contribute to the nation’s strength. On the other hand, in traditional Confucian Chinese society, women were centred around being a 'Wise Wife, Good Mother.' Education was less crucial for women, and their primary focus was on family responsibilities. When Japanese intellectuals introduced the concept of 'Good Wife, Wise Mother' to Manchukuo, it intertwined with the existing Chinese one, and the education system in Manchukuo gradually incorporated the Japanese view, stressing the importance of women’s education in shaping families and society. This research highlights the evolution of the status of women in Manchukuo because of the nation-building of the Manchukuo and the advocacy of the 'Kingly Way' ideology. Women’s education and role as mothers were closely linked to the nation’s modernization and industrial development. The advocate on knowledge and education shaped the image of a “wise and good” modern woman in Manchukuo. The establishment of the Manchukuo education system allowed for the gradual establishment of the “ideal” women in Manchukuo.