Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother

The Chinese Zodiac acts as both a symbol and framing device within the text. Each part is introduced by descriptions of Chua’s Tiger Zodiac: Part 1, “The tiger, the living symbol of strength and power, generally inspires fear and respect” (1); Part 2, “Tigers are always tense and like to be in a hurry” (75); and Part 3, “Tigers are capable of great love, but they become too intense about it” (155). These descriptions determine the theme of each section: Chua starts as an indomitable parent, makes mistakes when she tries to assert too much control, and ultimately remains confident that her intensity is the correct route of parenting.

She also refers to her daughters’ Zodiac signs several times throughout the text. Sophia is a typical Monkey—curious, capable, and intellectual—while Lulu is a textbook Boar—stubborn, warm-hearted, and hot-tempered. Chua’s reliance on and confidence in the Zodiac highlights an interesting tension within the text. She creates a binary between Western/ Chinese and Western astrology, in which she does not believe, and the Chinese Zodiac, which she finds legitimate. This dynamic reflects her general doubt about Western culture and her confidence in the superiority of Chinese models. However, her reliance on the Chinese Zodiac leads to the same pitfalls that she suggests are enabled by a reliance on astrology. The tension between predestination and self-determination becomes more visible—and destructive—as Chua becomes more determined to mold Lulu in a way that is at odds with Lulu’s personality.