Myths and Legends of China

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Myths and Legends of China

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Edward T. C. Werner offers a richly detailed exploration of Chinese mythology and folklore, presenting deities, creation tales, and cultural beliefs within their traditional and philosophical context. This scholarly yet accessible volume traces the origins of the Chinese people, examines cosmogony, and delves into legends of gods, immortals, dragons, and nature spirits, providing a true, not distorted, image of accredited Chinese myths.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Myths and Legends of China*, Edward T. C. Werner presents a comprehensive monograph investigating the origins, sociology, and mythology of the Chinese people. Challenging prevailing theories of a southern origin, Werner argues that the Chinese ancestors migrated from Western Asia, likely via the Tarim Valley or Khotan, eventually settling around the Yellow River. He establishes that Chinese myths are not obscene but reflect a just, peace-loving, and philosophical people. The work systematically explores the inorganic environment of early China, detailing its geological features and the gradual expansion of the civilization from its initial 50,000 square miles to encompass the vast territories of modern China Proper. Werner delves into major mythological categories, beginning with cosmogony involving Pan Ku and the creation of the world. He examines the pantheon of gods, including Shang Ti, the Supreme Ruler, and the Dragon Kings who govern the waters. The text covers celestial myths concerning stars and thunder, as well as elemental myths regarding fire, water, and epidemics. Werner details specific legends drawn from primary sources like the *Li tai shen hsien t'ung chien* and the *Sou shen chi*. These include the conflict between the Eight Immortals and the Dragon King Ao Ch'in over a shipwrecked servant; the tale of Liu I and the Dragon-King's Daughter, who rewards the scholar for saving her from a repudiated marriage; and the punishment of Shui-mu Niang-niang, the spirit of the waters, by Kuan-yin P'u-sa using magic vermicelli that turned into iron chains. The book also addresses fox legends and the story of the Monkey becoming a god. Werner emphasizes that these accredited myths, which live in the minds of the people, offer a true image of Chinese folklore rather than distorted or merely diverting tales. The work concludes with a glossary explaining the pronunciation and tones of Chinese words, serving as a valuable resource for understanding both the narrative and linguistic aspects of the culture.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/edward-t-c-werner_myths-and-legends-of-china.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Folklore and Mythology