The Images of the Courtesans in Liu Yong's Vulgar Lyrics

Abstract

Liu Yong was originally known as Liu Sanbian, but later changed his name to Yong, also named Qiqing, born in Chong'an. He was an influential contributor to the Song dynasty lyric literature. Influenced by the culture of the marketplace, Liu Yong's lyrical works reflect the characteristics of Slang and vulgar. Liu Yong's vulgar lyrics are dominated by the erotic words of men and women, with numerous depictions of women in the capacity of courtesans. The courtesans in Liu Yong's lyrics are portrayed with a female form in a male aesthetic, boldly breaking away from the traditional sense of love and also the women with male-dominated fidelity. Compared with the ancient boudoir women, the personalities of courtesans are free and bold, and they tended to reveal their love and admiration for men in a straightforward manner. Liu Yong reaches out and understands women intimately, presenting a different image of the courtesans than the traditional boudoir women.