Virtue as power: the remaking of the Virgin Mary in 17th-century China

Abstract

This paper explores the transmission and transformation of Marian devotions from early modern Europe to 17th-century China. It concentrates on the dynamic interplay of two key components—virtue and power—that constituted multiple representations and re-interpretations of Mary in the late imperial Chinese context. By examining a group of interrelated Christian texts, icons, and practices, this paper reveals how Catholic missionaries strategically introduced Mary as a new model of perfect virtues compatible with established Confucian moral ideals, how Mary competed with native goddesses (e.g. Guanyin Bodhisattva) in terms of doctrinal orthodoxy, compassion, child-giving power, and miraculous healing, as well as how Marian devotions helped Chinese converts consolidate their collective religious identity in daily experiences. The paper concludes that the phenomenal rise of a composite Chinese Marian culture towards the end of the 17th century contributed to the localization of Christianity from a Western religion to a marginal Chinese religion.