Utility, Beauty, and Balance: Taoist Parallels in The Apothecary Diaries

Recently, I’ve been completely absorbed in The Apothecary Diaries, and I couldn’t resist diving into a full character and theme analysis. In this first post, I’m focusing on the central theme of the series and how it surprisingly aligns with principles from the Tao Te Ching. Don’t worry—I’m not claiming the author based the story on Taoism, but the parallels in how the characters navigate the palace and the rear palace are fascinating. Think of it as a mix of palace intrigue, brilliant problem-solving, and quiet philosophy. I’ll be breaking this analysis into multiple posts on Substack here, exploring the story and characters from different angles, so there’s plenty more to come. If you’ve ever wondered why Maomao stays so calm under pressure or why Jinshi is both charming and frustratingly guarded, this post is for you.

---

(Image: The Apothecary Diaries promotional image)

Stories about intrigue, power, and human complexity have always captivated audiences, whether in historical dramas, literature, or mythology. The Apothecary Diaries stands out in this tradition, offering a unique perspective on life within the imperial palace while weaving in moral dilemmas, personal growth, and social commentary. At first glance, it might seem like a tale of palace politics and mystery, but the series’ true depth lies in its characters, their choices, their struggles, and the subtle ways they influence those around them. By examining the story through the lens of character development and philosophical principles, manga readers and anime viewers can uncover layers of meaning that go far beyond surface-level intrigue.

The Apothecary Diaries is a historical mystery and character-driven drama set in a fictionalized imperial China. The story follows Maomao, a highly intelligent and observant young woman who begins her life as a servant in the imperial palace, and Jinshi, a prince navigating the intricate politics and expectations of court life. Maomao’s skills in medicine, poisons, and keen observation allow her to uncover hidden truths and solve complex problems, often involving conspiracies, danger, and delicate social dynamics. While the narrative surrounds plots within the palace and occasionally features the pleasure district, it is equally focused on character growth, moral choice, and the human consequences of societal hierarchies.

Though the author has not indicated that Taoist philosophy influenced the creation of this series, there are clear parallels between the development of the characters and Taoist principles. Maomao exemplifies restraint, humility, and subtle mastery, guiding others without seeking recognition or reward, while Jinshi wrestles with identity, desire, and the tension between appearance and essence. I will explore these parallels through a series of posts: The following analysis will introduce key Taoist principles, how they align with the story and story genre, the second post will focus on Maomao and the third, on Jinshi. Later posts will examine the supporting characters and their roles in the narrative, each analyzing personalities, choices, and interactions through this lens.  Each post will examine the story and characters in seasons one and two.

The Tao Argument

The Tao, often translated as “The Way,” is the guiding principle of Taoist philosophy that describes the natural order underlying all existence. It is not a god, a set of laws, or a rigid moral framework, but the quiet logic of how life unfolds when allowed to move without force or excessive interference. The Tao is beyond anything humans can comprehend or convey in words. Those who experience oneness with Tao are able to practice Wu-wei. Wu wei, or effortless action, is a central concept in Taoist philosophy. It is defined by acting in accordance with circumstances rather than against them, intervening only when necessary, and allowing outcomes to arise through balance, observation, and timing. Wu-wei is a way of life that values humility, restraint, and adaptability. Taoism teaches that true strength lies in flexibility and awareness rather than dominance or display. Those who follow the Tao do not seek recognition or control; they influence events subtly, like water shaping stone through persistence and flow rather than aggression.

These principles are deeply reflected in The Apothecary Diaries, particularly in how its characters navigate the rigid hierarchies and dangers of the imperial court. Survival in the rear palace depends less on overt power and more on perception, restraint, and knowing when-and when not-to act. This series of analysis will describe in detail the parallels between the development of the characters in the Apothecary Diaries and the principles presented in the Tao Te Ching.

Central Theme

At its core, The Apothecary Diaries explores the question of value, agency, and the human cost of societal expectation. The narrative repeatedly asks these Taoist questions:

“Which is more important, your honor or your life? Which is more valuable, your possessions or your person? Which is more destructive, success or failure?”

Characters across the palace and pleasure district navigate this tension in vastly different ways, revealing the interplay between external perception and internal worth. Maomao, Jinshi, the concubines, and courtesans all confront circumstances in which their survival, social standing, and self-perception are constantly weighed against societal hierarchies. The story illustrates how perceived value, whether based on beauty, intelligence, utility, or status, directly shapes the experiences, freedoms, and constraints of individuals within these rigid systems.

For Maomao, her knowledge of medicine and poisons is a source of utility that grants her influence despite her low official status. Her skills create opportunities for self-agency, yet she maintains quiet humility, often avoiding recognition for her interventions and successes. This reflects the Taoist principle that “The Master accepts things as they are, and out of compassion avoids extravagance, excess, and the extremes”, demonstrating that true mastery lies in subtlety and guidance rather than control or display. In contrast, Jinshi’s perceived value lies in his physical attractiveness, charisma, and royal status, which he wields strategically. Yet these very attributes trap him, as he struggles with whether he has worth beyond appearances. Both characters show how internal and external measures of value shape personal freedom, decisions, and the navigation of power.

The concubines and courtesans provide another perspective on the theme. Their societal worth is tied to beauty, lineage, or charm. This “currency” dictates their daily experiences, opportunities, and vulnerabilities. Lady Lihua’s illness and the death of her son were caused by her attendants prioritizing superficial beauty over safety. This demonstrates the destructive potential of reducing human value to appearances alone. Taoist wisdom reinforces this lesson:

“Those who try to outshine others dim their own light. Those who boast of their accomplishments diminish the things they have done.” 

Within the palace, concubines are compelled to perform, manipulate, and compete. This highlights how survival often demands self-sacrifice and strategic restraint. Misjudging true value can have devastating consequences. Jinshi’s navigation of identity, deception, and desire similarly underscores the tension between appearance and essence, showing that external markers of success are insufficient for personal fulfillment.

Another layer of the theme emerges through the contrast between survival and moral integrity. Maomao and Jinshi are repeatedly confronted with choices where the easier path might compromise ethics or compassion. For example, Maomao’s fearless exposure to death; sleeping beside deceased children and unveiling the truth that they were in fact alive, illustrates the Taoist ideal that “If you do not fear death, then how can it intimidate you? If you aren’t afraid of dying, there is nothing you cannot do.” 

Structurally, the story presents the palace as “heaven”. This is the home of the emperor who, according to the Mandate of Heaven, serves as the divine voice on earth. The pleasure district as represents “earth”, the home of the common people. However, Maomao observes that the struggles and intrigues in both realms are remarkably similar, suggesting that human behavior and challenges transcend setting. This parallels the Taoist principle of interconnectedness: “As above, so below.” True influence and power, therefore, do not depend solely on rank, title, or appearance, but from self-knowledge, courage, and ethical action within complex social systems. This reflects the Taoist ideals of balance, subtle guidance, and mastery through humility and insight.

Ultimately, the central theme of The Apothecary Diaries revolves around negotiating self-worth, survival, and moral agency within restrictive societal frameworks. By examining how value is perceived through utility, beauty, status, or skill, the series illuminates the delicate balance between external expectation and internal principles, and illustrates that real strength emerges from courage, insight, and ethical action, rather than mere appearances or superficial status.

Genre Analysis of The Apothecary Diaries

The Apothecary Diaries occupies a nuanced space within manga and anime genres, blending elements traditionally associated with shōjo, josei, and historical fiction while incorporating complex political intrigue, mystery, and romance. While the narrative centers on Maomao, a young female protagonist navigating both the perilous palace and the pleasure district, it resists the simplicity often associated with one genre targeted to a single demographic. Instead, it weaves a story that appeals to readers interested in psychological depth, social dynamics, and moral reasoning.

The series shares certain hallmarks with shōjo narratives, particularly in its focus on personal relationships, character development, and emotional nuance. Maomao’s interactions with Jinshi and other key figures reveal subtle emotional undercurrents, unspoken trust, and relational tension, which are characteristic of shōjo’s emphasis on interpersonal connection. Similarly, the attention to detail in character expressions, the development of intimate bonds, and the exploration of desire, admiration, and longing reflect shōjo storytelling techniques.

At the same time, the story demonstrates traits common in josei works, including mature thematic exploration, social critique, and realistic depictions of power, gender, and societal constraints. Maomao’s experience as a servant in the Rear Palace and her observations of concubines, courtesans, and palace politics highlight the tension between individual agency and hierarchical structures, a focus that resonates with josei’s interest in adult women’s experiences and ethical dilemmas. The series does not shy away from the harsh realities of the historical setting, including vulnerability, exploitation, and the consequences of knowledge and status, all of which enrich its mature tone.

While the story might appear to borrow from historical fiction through its detailed depiction of palace life, customs, and the broader sociopolitical environment, it is not strictly bound to realism. Instead, historical elements provide a framework within which the characters’ intellectual and moral struggles unfold, lending authenticity to the narrative while emphasizing the universality of its themes. The palace and pleasure district serve as complementary settings, offering contrasting arenas of influence, danger, and agency. This duality reinforces the narrative’s exploration of hierarchy, morality, and human behavior.

Finally, The Apothecary Diaries incorporates elements of mystery and detective fiction, particularly through Maomao’s role as an investigator of illnesses, poisonings, and unexplained events. This investigative aspect drives the plot and positions Maomao as an intellectual hero, demonstrating that her value and influence extend far beyond social expectations or appearances. Coupled with moments of subtle romance and interpersonal tension, the series presents a hybridized genre experience: part historical intrigue, part character study, part relational drama, and part mystery.

In summary, The Apothecary Diaries cannot be strictly categorized into a single genre. It blends shōjo-style emotional depth, josei-level thematic sophistication, historical setting and authenticity, and investigative narrative structure. This multifaceted genre approach allows the story to explore character, society, and morality with richness and nuance, appealing to readers across a variety of genres.

Conclusion

The Apothecary Diaries presents a rich and layered narrative that intertwines historical intrigue, character-driven storytelling, and subtle philosophical underpinnings. Through Maomao and Jinshi, the series explores themes of agency, value, and mastery. How individuals navigate societal constraints, personal vulnerabilities, and the complex interplay of intellect and emotion. Maomao’s journey from a pragmatic, emotionally restrained apothecary to a figure of quiet mastery illustrates the Taoist ideal of influence through observation, restraint, and alignment with the natural flow of circumstances. Similarly, Jinshi’s struggle to reconcile his public role, personal desires, and the void left by his deprived upbringing highlights the challenges of identity, belonging, and self-actualization within a rigid societal hierarchy.

By incorporating elements from shōjo and josei genres while subverting their tropes, such as the traditional romance arc, the charming male lead, and the passive heroine, the series foregrounds intelligence, moral courage, and subtle emotional depth over performative drama. The tension and connection between Maomao and Jinshi develop organically through trust, collaboration, and selective vulnerability, offering a nuanced portrayal of partnership that aligns with Taoist principles of effortlessness, balance, and harmony.

Ultimately, the series succeeds in crafting characters and a narrative that are both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant. It demonstrates that true mastery-whether of oneself, of one’s environment, or of the challenges posed by others, is achieved not through force or spectacle, but through observation, skill, and thoughtful action. In doing so, The Apothecary Diaries offers a compelling study of human behavior, societal dynamics, and the subtle interplay between wisdom and agency, leaving a lasting impression on the reader that extends well beyond the surface story.

References

Eisenbeis, R. (2014, March 7). How to Identify the Basic Types of Anime and Manga. Retrieved from Kotaku: https://kotaku.com/how-to-identify-the-basic-types-of-anime-and-manga-1538285518

Hansen, C. (2025, April 19). Daoism. Retrieved from Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/daoism/

Kirkland, R. (2002). The Taoist Tradition: A Historical outlin of the History of Taoism. Retrieved from University of Georgia: https://religion.uga.edu/sites/default/files/inline-files/Taoist-Tradition.pdf

Tzu, L. (2024). Tao Te Ching. Translated by John H. McDonald. Arcturus Publishing Limited.