Chinese Mythology & Culture
Chinese mythology provides a fascinating window into Chinese culture. The mythical stories of the Chinese people have been influenced by and also influenced the character and culture of the people. To understand the interrelationship of Chinese mythology and culture requires understanding a few aspects of Chinese history and the way in which the ancient myths have been transmitted and used.
Other People Are Reading
-
Background
-
The ideas of sixth century philosopher Confucius became a profound influence on Chinese culture. Confucius emphasized correct behavior and respect for those senior in age or social rank, and Confucian ideas included ancestor worship. From the fourth century B.C. onward, Daoism became another influence on Chinese society. The anthology "Daodejing," attributed to Laozi, who may be a mythical figure, appeared in the fourth century. The title means "The Way and Its Power," referring to the power gained by surrendering to nature, according to History World.net. Finally, Buddhism was introduced to China in the first century A.D. Buddhism made many contributions to Chinese mythology, such as the cyclical life of the soul, according to "The Oxford Companion to World Mythology."
Transmission
-
The myths of ancient pre-Buddhist China are primarily known through later Confucian works. The Confucian scholars placed the ancient myths in a historical context and used them illustrate moral and social principles. Sources for ancient Chinese myths include the first millennium B.C. collection "Shanghai jing," which listed gods and demons for the benefit of travelers, and the late fourth century B.C. poems by Qui Yuan, according to the "Oxford Companion."
-
Characteristics
-
It can be hard to separate myths and myth, divine beings and historical figures in Chinese mythology, which is a mixture of history, legend and myth. The most important gods of Chinese mythology that are still prevalent in Chinese popular culture are considered to be the first Chinese emperors, according to the Oxford Companion. Legends are also attached to historical figures and figures with characteristics whose supernatural qualities seem divine are considered human in Chinese mythology. For example, Pangu, who was born in the cosmic egg of creation and is the source of this world, is nevertheless the First Man in Chinese mythology, according to the "Oxford Companion." Regarded as the Chinese Adam by westerners, Pangu is sometimes depicted as a dwarf with two horns on his head; increased his height by 6 to 10 feet daily; and hammered and chiseled a piece of granite floating in space until he separated heaven from earth, according to Chinavoc.com.
Influence on Culture
-
Chinese myths are thought to be the root of Chinese literature and art, writes Lihui Yang, Deming An and Jessica Anderson Turner in "Handbook of Chinese Mythology." The strong romantic writing style in Chinese literature is thought to arise from the direct or stylistic influence of the myths on eminent writers. The emphasis on self-reliance and making every effort to change bad situations in the myths have also influenced the Chinese spirit.
Other Themes
-
Themes prevalent in Chinese mythical and fantasy stories, including those by later fiction writers, are praise of labor, creation, perseverance, self-sacrifice and rebellion against oppression. Chinese mythical stories may also eulogize the yearning for true love that was stifled by feudal ethical codes, as the story "The Cowherd and the Girl Weaver," one of China's earliest love stories. The theme of encouraging good deeds and warning against sin may reflect Confucian and Buddhist tenets, according to China Vista.net.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit china image by Luisafer from Fotolia.com
