Conclusion

Besides reviewing the chapter themes, the Conclusion reflects on the power dynamic between emperor and eunuch. Emperors were the most powerful men in their world, and they occasionally exercised total power over their eunuchs, but in general imperial power over eunuchs was tempered by factors such as palace opinion, and the responsibilities imposed by the gold standard described in Chapter 1. The Conclusion also points to the consequences of Qianlong’s management style late in his reign, and in subsequent Qing reigns (such as that of the Daoguang emperor), when eunuchs grew in arrogance, sense of entitlement, and independence. They also developed rich lives outside the palace, buying homes, living on their own, and pursuing romantic connections with those on the outside. They never achieved the political power of Ming eunuchs, but they became wealthy and powerful in Beijing and beyond.