Mythical Tales of Ancient China A Journey Through
In the realm of ancient China, a plethora of mythical tales and legends have been passed down through generations. These stories are not just mere fantasies but hold deep cultural significance and often reflect the values, beliefs, and societal norms of the time. In this article, we will embark on a journey through time to explore some of these fascinating Chinese mythological tales.
The Great Flood
One of the most significant myths in Chinese history is that of the great flood. According to legend, in ancient times, there was a devastating flood that threatened to destroy all life on earth. To save humanity from extinction, the gods sent down Yu the Great who managed to control and drain off excess water by digging canals and building dams.
Yu's heroic deeds were recognized by heaven itself when he became known as one of China's three sage emperors along with Yao and Shun. This story highlights Yu's bravery as well as his wisdom in solving an immense problem faced by society during his reign.
The Eight Immortals
The eight immortals are another set of legendary figures who embody various aspects such as longevity, martial arts prowess or even culinary skills among others like He Xiangu (the only female immortal) representing purity while Lan Caihe represents beauty.
These immortals were said to be born from different parts around them; for example Zhang Guolao was born out of a bean curd while Cao Guojiu came from an eggplant plant while Lü Dongbin was discovered inside a peach tree branch after being expelled into heaven for practicing Taoism too fervently at age 16!
3.Peking Man
Peking Man is also known as Sinanthropus pekinensis or Homo erectus pekinensis - they lived about 700-400 thousand years ago in Zhoukoudian near Beijing city area where many fossils were found including Peking Man skull which has proven valuable insights into early human evolution.
4.The Monkey King Sun Wukong
Sun Wukong is perhaps one amongst several characters within Journey to West novel written by Wu Cheng'en between 1590s &1600s AD - it tells us how Monkey King goes on pilgrimage together with Tang Sanzang monk accompanied by two other disciples named Zhu Bajie & Sha Wujing (also called Piggy & Sandy).
5.Xiwangmu And Chang'e
Xiwangmu also known simply Wang Mu Goddess Of Heaven according her name translated 'Queen Mother' - she lives atop Mount Kunlun protecting celestial jade casket containing elixir-of-life; Chang'e would fall ill due her longing for love thus breaking taboo rule against drinking heavenly wine resulting in losing moonlight causing permanent exile from Earthly Realm until final return upon marriage with mortal man Hou Yi archer who had shot ten suns using nine arrows leaving only one sun remaining at sky above us today!
6.The White Bone Demon Queen
She appeared throughout Chinese mythology especially famous tale "Journey To The West" where she causes trouble leading protagonist Sun Wukong towards dangerous paths trying kill him; however she becomes friends after realizing his good heart eventually helps Sun Wukong survive challenges he faces later becoming part team fighting demons making friendship grow stronger over time!
