[[Characters]] #Characters \ #Society-and-Culture \ #Literature-and-Education # 民 mín people; ethnic group ## Components [[氏 shì]] [[一 yī]] [[一 (yī)]] [[巳 sì]] [[斜钩 ((xié gōu))]] ## Meaning Today, the character "民" primarily denotes the populace or common people, referring to ordinary citizens distinct from the ruling class or elites. It can also serve as an adjective describing things related to ordinary people or the general public. ## History The character "民" originally referred to slaves, specifically those who were cruelly blinded by their masters using a awl. This practice symbolized the harsh treatment of slaves by their masters in ancient society. Over time, "民" evolved to represent the common people, distinct from the ruling class indicated by the character "人". In its ancient form, the character depicted an awl piercing the left eye, emphasizing the brutality inflicted upon slaves. In modern usage, "民" primarily denotes the populace or common people, contrasting with the elite ruling class. This character also serves as an adjective to describe things related to ordinary people or the general public. ## Evolution ### Oracular Script ![[民 mín - ora.svg]] ### Bronze Script ![[民 mín - bronce.svg]] ### Seal Script ![[民 mín - sello.svg]] ### Clerical Script ![[民 mín - cle.svg]] ### Regular Script ![[民 mín - reg.svg]]