ABSTRACT
This chapter demonstrates that several generations of young women have challenged patriarchal power in terms of mate-choice, marriage negotiation, and family division, thus altering the domestic sphere. It explores the social context in which these young women have developed their identities and have progressed from voiceless dependents to active agents in family life. The chapter discusses the limitations to girl power and explains how these limitations may also contribute to the emergence of such a power. In Xiajia village, as in many other communities in the surrounding area, youth autonomy in mate-choice emerged during the late 1950s, but it remained limited by certain local customs and ritual procedures. With inter-village marriages, agreement for a match had to be worked out in stages. The bride made such a bold request because the groom had four younger brothers waiting to be married and the economic status of the groom’s family was below average.
