The Secret Love Story Behind China’s ‘Cut Sleeve’ Legend (English & Chinese)

The phrase “cut sleeve” (断袖, duàn xiù) is a famous and meaningful term in Chinese history that symbolizes male queer love, particularly between men in imperial times. Its origin comes from a touching story during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE) involving Emperor Ai of Han and his male lover, Dong Xian.

According to historical records, Emperor Ai was once napping while resting his head on Dong Xian’s sleeve. When the emperor needed to get up, he didn’t want to disturb Dong’s sleep, so rather than waking him or pulling away abruptly, he quietly cut off the sleeve of his garment to free himself. This considerate and affectionate act became a symbol of deep love and devotion.

Because of this story, “cut sleeve” became a poetic and discreet way to refer to homosexual relationships between men in Chinese culture. It’s often seen as an early historical acknowledgment of same-sex desire, reflecting moments when such relationships were accepted, at least within certain circles of the elite and royal families.

The “cut sleeve” story contrasts with other historic references to same-sex love in China, such as the term “passion of the cut sleeve,” and illustrates that queer love has a complex and nuanced history in Chinese society, sometimes hidden in metaphor but often recognized and recorded in imperial histories.

Over time, the phrase has been used in literature and art as a gentle, respectful allusion to male homosexual love, carrying connotations of tenderness and loyalty. It remains a significant cultural reference when exploring the history of sexuality in China.

“断袖" 这个词在中国历史上非常有名，象征着男性之间的同性之爱，特别是在帝王时代。 它的起源来自汉朝（公元前206年－公元220年）关于汉哀帝和他的男宠董贤的感人故事。

据历史记载，汉哀帝曾经在午睡时把头靠在董贤的袖子上。当皇帝需要起身时，他不想吵醒董贤，于是选择剪断自己衣服的袖子以便离开。这个体贴又深情的举动，后来成为了深厚爱意和忠诚的象征。“断袖”因此成为了中国文化中形容男性同性恋关系的委婉表达。

它反映出在某些时期，尤其是皇室阶层中，同性恋关系被一定程度上接受和记录。这个故事和“断袖之癖”一样，是中国同性恋历史中一个复杂且细腻的象征。

后来，“断袖”被用在文学和艺术中，作为对男同性恋爱温柔而尊重的隐喻。它至今仍是研究中国性历史时一个重要的文化符号。