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The Forgotten Queens of Angkor: Women Who Shaped the Khmer Empire
Season 1
Episode 5
Published 3 months, 2 weeks ago
Description
In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the overlooked role of women in the Khmer Empire, from divine queens like Indradevi to the fierce Jayarajadevi who influenced Jayavarman VII's reign. They discuss the 'apsara' carvings at Angkor Wat, the legal status of women in Khmer society, and how trade with China through the port of Srei Santhor empowered female merchants. The conversation also touches on the legendary Queen Sisowath, who led a revolt against the Siamese, and the gradual decline of women's influence as the empire centralized. Through inscriptions and bas-reliefs, Lucas reveals a complex picture of female agency in a patriarchal world, challenging the narrative of a purely male-dominated empire.