The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files
S4 - E33 – Dressing Up (and sometimes Stripping Off) – Taiwanese Weddings
Dec 5, 2024
Explore the vibrant culture of Taiwanese weddings, where elaborate banquets meet unique traditions. Discover the intriguing tale of a wedding and a funeral occurring simultaneously, showcasing a mix of joy and solemnity. Learn about the evolution of wedding attire, from traditional red dresses to modern white gowns. The shift from extravagant celebrations to more modest affairs highlights changing social dynamics. Delve into the legal implications of public nudity at these events, reflecting on Taiwan's cultural transformation.
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Wedding vs. Funeral
- John witnessed a wedding and a funeral happening 20 meters apart at the same time.
- Both events maximized noise, creating sensory overload.
Early Wedding Impressions
- In early Taiwanese weddings John attended, he often didn't know the bride and groom.
- Hundreds of guests attended, and the setting was basic with plastic tablecloths and disposable chopsticks.
Cash Gifts
- John initially found giving cash gifts impersonal.
- He now appreciates the practicality, viewing it as contributing to the meal's cost.