Classic Chinese Mythology: Legendary Figures and Cultural Meanings

Chinese mythology is ancient, magical, and fascinating. These stories are full of adventure and wonder while containing profound wisdom and cultural significance, reflecting the unique values of Chinese civilization. Through mythology, foreign learners can understand how ancient Chinese imagined the universe, interpreted nature, and viewed courage, responsibility, love, and sacrifice. Arranged chronologically, here are six selected classic myths, allowing you to enjoy the stories while learning related vocabulary and expressions.

Pangu Creates the World

In the beginning, chaos prevailed, and heaven and earth were undivided. The universe was like a huge dark egg. From this chaos, Pangu was born. Towering like a mountain and holding a divine axe, he used his strength to split the chaos. As the axe struck, the sky rose, the land solidified, and heaven and earth gradually separated. Over time, Pangu exhausted his strength and passed away, but his body transformed into all living things: his breath became wind and clouds, his voice became thunder, his eyes became the sun and moon, his blood nourished rivers, and his limbs became the four great mountains. His death was not an end but a new beginning. Pangu symbolizes creativity, order, and sacrifice, reflecting the Chinese reverence for nature and the pursuit of human ideals.

Nuwa Creates Humans

Nuwa, a mysterious goddess half-human and half-snake, walked across the desolate earth. Seeing a world with no humans, she was filled with compassion. She molded small figures from yellow clay, giving them life and intelligence. When the sky cracked and floods spread, Nuwa melted colorful stones to repair the sky, stopping disasters and restoring peace. Nuwa symbolizes creation, protection, and motherhood, reflecting the Chinese idea of harmony between heaven and humans and respect for life and nature.

Hou Yi Shoots the Suns & Chang’e Flies to the Moon

Long ago, ten suns rose in the sky, scorching the earth, and the people suffered. The hero Hou Yi, strong and skilled, climbed a high peak and shot down nine suns, leaving one to warm the world and restore life. The Queen Mother of the West gave Hou Yi the elixir of immortality, which he entrusted to his wife, Chang’e. When someone tried to seize it, Chang’e swallowed it and flew to the moon, separated from Hou Yi. She guards the elixir and watches the earth. Every Mid-Autumn Festival, the bright moon symbolizes her courage and sacrifice. Hou Yi represents bravery, wisdom, and responsibility; Chang’e represents love, sacrifice, and protection. The story illustrates the Chinese cultural values of courage, love, and sacrifice, as well as the profound relationship between humans and nature, fate, and morality.

Yellow Emperor Battles Chiyou

In ancient times, the central plains were full of powerful leaders. Chiyou, fierce and cunning, led the Nine Li tribe, known as the “Diamond Army,” challenging the Yellow Emperor’s rule. Chiyou rode a giant black-and-white bear, commanding awe. When he charged the battlefield, forests trembled, and thunder roared. The Yellow Emperor gathered his people, rode a qilin, and used strategic tactics to defeat Chiyou’s powers. The battlefield was chaotic, but the Yellow Emperor triumphed, restoring order. Chiyou’s bear became a guardian spirit for the nation. The Yellow Emperor symbolizes wisdom, courage, and leadership; Chiyou represents challenge and strength. Their battle illustrates the conflict between order and chaos, civilization and wildness, as well as human ingenuity against natural and supernatural forces.

Yu the Great Controls the Floods

Floods devastated the land, and people suffered. Yu the Great took responsibility, examined the rivers, and guided the water through channels according to the terrain. He passed his home three times without entering, fully devoted to saving the people. Yu’s efforts not only controlled the floods but also set an example of responsibility and dedication for future generations. Yu symbolizes perseverance, wisdom, and responsibility, embodying admiration for heroic deeds and national unity.

Nezha Causes Havoc in the Sea

Nezha was extraordinary and rebellious. He fought the Dragon King in the Eastern Sea to protect the people. Using magical weapons and intelligence, Nezha defeated his enemies, but sacrificed himself for redemption and protection. With help from his parents and master, he was reborn. Nezha’s story is action-packed and legendary, reflecting growth and responsibility. Nezha symbolizes bravery, justice, and self-redemption, emphasizing independence and the spirit of responsibility.

Vocabulary & Example Sentences

Vocabulary

Example Sentences