Why were ancient performers regarded as inferior occupations?

Actor, called actor in ancient times. Excellent: excellent, indicating flirting; Ling: musician; The word actor means lightness. Actors are at the bottom of society and are regarded as untouchables, which are specially used for the entertainment of powerful people. You are not allowed to take the imperial examinations, you are not allowed to marry a "good family" (military, civilian, business and kitchen people are all good), and even there are restrictions on clothing and riding. "Prostitutes and actresses" are inferior, but prostitutes still have a chance to be good, but actresses can't get rid of them all their lives. It's really bitter.

The actor's humble position is roughly due to the following reasons:

First, the "official standard" in ancient China advocated that "everything is inferior, and only reading is high"; Low productivity, mainly agriculture. "Scholars, farmers, workers and businessmen" are regarded as idle because they do not participate in production.

Secondly, in a performer's career, there are many places that violate ethical norms. Actors are running around performing, unable to honor their parents at home; On the stage, women make public appearances and men dress up as women. Because of the need of performance, the original mother-child relationship may play husband and wife. Even if there are happy events or funerals at home, it is against the ethics at that time to cry and laugh.

Third, on the stage, opera performance is the work of the actors; After leaving the stage, some actresses have to flatter powerful people like prostitutes, singing and laughing, which makes people cry. Therefore, it was regarded as an inferior profession in ancient times.