When people think of virtuous empresses in Chinese history, names like Empress Zhangsun of the Tang Dynasty and Empress Ma of the Ming often come to mind. But Empress Bian — wife of Cao Cao, the founding ruler of the state of Wei — rarely receives the same recognition. This may be due to the infamous portrayal of Cao Cao as a treacherous villain in Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a novel that has heavily influenced popular perception. Yet historical records paint a different picture of Empress Bian: one of strength, wisdom, and virtue worthy of her place among China’s most admirable women.
Rising from humble origins
Lady Bian came from a modest background and once worked as a singer and dancer, a profession held in low regard at the time. At age 20, she became one of Cao Cao’s concubines and later followed him to Luoyang. When the warlord Dong Zhuo plunged the capital into chaos, Cao Cao fled under a false name.
At one point, rumors spread that Cao had died, and some of his followers considered leaving. Lady Bian, however, spoke firmly: “Lord Cao’s fate is still unknown. If we return home today and he reappears tomorrow, how could we face him? Even if disaster comes, why should we desert him now?” Her words rallied the group and inspired their loyalty.
A heart for the people and a model mother
Lady Bian accompanied Cao Cao as he raised an army against Dong Zhuo. Along the way, she witnessed the devastation of war. When she saw elderly civilians with white hair, she would stop to offer comfort and distribute necessities like food and clothing — a reflection of her deep compassion for the common people.
She was also a devoted and principled mother. Her sons, Cao Pi and Cao Zhi, both born to her, became central figures in Chinese literary history. Together with their father, they were known as “The Three Caos,” founders of the Jian’an literary tradition — a style known for its emotional depth and elegance that flourished during the late Han Dynasty. Their achievements owed much to Lady Bian’s guidance and emphasis on education.
When Cao Pi was named crown prince, courtiers urged Lady Bian to celebrate and distribute rewards. She declined, saying: “Cao Pi was chosen because he is the eldest. If my sons have been properly raised, that is reward enough. What need is there to distribute lavish gifts?” Cao Cao praised her, remarking: “She remains calm in anger and measured in joy — a rare quality of self-control and dignity.”
A life of humility and frugality
Even after being named empress, Empress Bian lived simply. Her chambers lacked gold or silver decorations, furnished only with plain black lacquered pieces. She voluntarily reduced the imperial household’s food supply and ordered the removal of gold and silver utensils. Historical records say she and her attendants ate only millet and vegetables — no fish or meat.
She held her family to the same high standards. “Live simply,” she told her relatives. “Do not seek rewards — it’s for your own good.” When relatives broke the law, she insisted on full punishment. Her firm sense of justice earned her the respect of officials and the trust of Cao Cao.
Uncompromising integrity in the imperial court
After Cao Cao’s death in 220 AD, his son Cao Pi became Emperor Wu of Wei and honored Lady Bian as empress dowager. When Cao Zhi, her younger son, was accused of misconduct, officials pushed for harsh punishment. Cao Pi hesitated, knowing his mother had always favored Cao Zhi, and sent her nephew Bian Lan to ask her opinion.
But Lady Bian did not interfere. She sorrowfully acknowledged her son’s mistakes and replied: “I cannot allow personal feelings to override the law.” Even when Cao Pi approached her directly, she refrained from comment.
Although she stayed out of politics, Lady Bian stood firm when justice was at stake. When Cao Pi sentenced General Cao Hong to death — reportedly out of a long-standing personal grudge — Lady Bian was furious. “If not for Zilian, we wouldn’t have the fortune we enjoy today,” she rebuked him, using the general’s courtesy name. Cao Hong had once saved Cao Cao’s life, and she reminded her son of that debt. Thanks to her intervention, Cao Hong was spared.
A legacy of strength and wisdom
Empress Bian stood beside Cao Cao for more than forty years, offering steadfast support through war and turmoil. She raised sons who left a mark on Chinese culture and remained a pillar of integrity and justice even in the face of personal sacrifice.
Though history often overlooks her contributions, Empress Bian’s strength, humility, and moral clarity earn her a place among the great women of China’s imperial past — worthy of remembrance alongside the most celebrated empresses in history.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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