Chinese Mythology: An Introduction

Abstract

Definitions of Myth -- Approaches to Chinese Myth -- The Comparative Method in the Study of Chinese Myth -- Modern Chinese and Japanese Studies of Chinese Myth -- The Nature of Chinese Mythic Narratives -- The Polyfunctionality of Myth as an Organizing Principle -- Future Research on Chinese Myth: A New Dimension -- 1. Origins -- The Origin of the World -- The Goddess Nu Kua Creates Human Beings -- Sunrise, Sunset -- 2. Culture Bearers -- The River God Chu Ling -- The Fire Driller -- Fu Hsi's Inventions and Discoveries -- The Farmer God Thrashes Herbs -- Ch'ih Yu Invents Metallurgy and Weapons -- Ti K'u Makes Musical Instruments -- Hou Chi Teaches How to Sow Grain -- Po Yi Tames Birds and Beasts -- K'ung Chia Rears Dragons -- Ts'an Ts'ung Encourages Sericulture -- Master Yen Presents His Invention -- Minor Culture Bearer Traditions -- 3. Saviors -- Chu Lung, Torch Dragon -- Nu Kua Mends the Sky -- Hou Chi Saves Humans from Starvation -- Shun, the Filial Son --^