Wu -- The Chinese Empress Who Schemed, Seduced, Murdered Her Way to the Top [audio 9min]

Regarded by some as the most evil woman in the history of China -- the Empress Wu lived in the 7th century, and has been accused of killing her mother, her own child, and countless rivals in her bid for power. Yet she set up orphanages, enhanced the position of women, and made it possible for lower classes to advance in Government -- so who is the real Wu, and what should we make of her today? Jonathan Clements, has written a biography of this remarkable woman -- he joins presenter Sheila McClennonto explain why she's been misunderstood.