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ENH251 - Mythology

Deals with the myths and legends of civilizations with the greatest influence upon the development of the literature and culture of the English speaking people, and compares those myths with myths from other cultures.

Asian Myths

Asian mythology encompasses a diverse range of myths, legends, and folklore from various cultures across the Asian continent. These stories often explain the origins of the world, natural phenomena, and cultural practices, and they feature a rich tapestry of gods, goddesses, heroes, and mythical creatures. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Diversity of Traditions

Asian mythology is not a single, unified body of work but a collection of traditions from different regions, including Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Korean, and Southeast Asian mythologies. Each tradition has its own unique stories and deities, reflecting the cultural and historical contexts of the region 1 2.

2. Creation Myths

Many Asian mythologies include creation myths that explain how the world and humanity came into existence. For example, in Chinese mythology, the world was created by the giant Pangu, who separated the sky from the earth 3. In Japanese mythology, the islands of Japan were created by the deities Izanagi and Izanami 2.

3. Pantheons of Deities

Asian mythologies often feature extensive pantheons of gods and goddesses. In Hindu mythology, there are numerous deities such as Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, each with specific roles and attributes. Similarly, Chinese mythology includes deities like the Jade Emperor and Guanyin 3 4.

4. Heroic Tales and Epics

Heroic tales and epics are common in Asian mythology. The Indian epic, the Mahabharata, is one of the longest epic poems in the world and tells the story of the Kurukshetra War and the fates of the Kaurava and Pandava princes. Japanese mythology includes the tale of Momotarō, a boy born from a peach who defeats ogres with the help of animal companions 2.

5. Mythical Creatures

Mythical creatures play a significant role in Asian mythology. The Chinese dragon is a symbol of power and good fortune, while the Japanese kappa is a mischievous water spirit. These creatures often embody natural forces and moral lessons 2 3.

6. Influence on Culture

Asian myths have a profound influence on the cultures from which they originate. They shape religious practices, festivals, art, literature, and even social norms. For instance, the story of Amaterasu, the sun goddess, is central to Shinto practices in Japan 2.

Understanding Asian mythology provides valuable insights into the cultural and historical contexts of these regions, enriching our appreciation of their contributions to world mythology. If you have any specific myths or regions you’re interested in, feel free to ask!

Learn more   1. britannica.com 2. mythbank.com   3. historycooperative.org   4. mythopedia.com   5. en.wikipedia.org

Myths from China

 

Representation image of Chinese myths\\

Chinese mythology is rich with fascinating stories that have been passed down through generations. Here are some of the most notable myths:

  1. The Creation Myth of Pangu: According to legend, Pangu was the first living being and creator of the world. He emerged from a cosmic egg and separated the heavens from the earth, shaping the world as we know it 1.

  2. Nüwa and the Creation of Humanity: Nüwa, a goddess with a human upper body and a serpent’s lower body, is credited with creating humanity. She molded humans from yellow clay and later repaired the sky after a great flood 2.

  3. The Legend of the White Snake: This is a romantic tale about a white snake spirit who transforms into a woman and falls in love with a human. Their love faces many trials, including opposition from a monk 3.

  4. The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl: This myth tells the story of a forbidden love between a mortal cowherd and a celestial weaver girl. They are separated by the Milky Way but are allowed to reunite once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month 2.

  5. The Jade Rabbit: According to mythology, the Jade Rabbit lives on the moon and is a companion to the moon goddess Chang’e. The rabbit is often depicted pounding the elixir of immortality 1.

  6. The Monkey King (Sun Wukong): Featured in the classic novel “Journey to the West,” Sun Wukong is a mischievous monkey with incredible strength and magical abilities. His adventures are central to one of China’s most beloved stories 3.

These myths not only provide insight into Chinese culture and beliefs but also continue to influence modern literature, art, and popular culture.

Learn more   1. ancienthistorylists.com   2. theculturetrip.com   3. letslearnchinese.org   4. tutormandarin.net   5. historycooperative.org

Myths from Japan

 

Japanese myth image

 

Japanese mythology is rich with fascinating stories that have been passed down through generations. Here are some of the most notable myths:

  1. Izanagi and Izanami: These deities are central to Japan’s creation myth. According to legend, they created the islands of Japan and gave birth to many gods, including Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and Susano-o, the storm god 1.

  2. Amaterasu: The sun goddess and one of the most important deities in Shinto. One famous myth involves her retreating into a cave, plunging the world into darkness, until she was lured out by the other gods 1.

  3. Momotarō: Also known as the Peach Boy, Momotarō is a popular folk hero who was born from a giant peach. He embarks on a journey to defeat ogres with the help of his animal friends 2.

  4. Tengu: These are mischievous mountain goblins known for their trickery. Originally depicted as bird-like creatures, they later evolved to have human characteristics with long noses 3.

  5. Kappa: Water spirits that inhabit rivers and ponds. They are known for their mischievous behavior, but they can also be helpful if treated with respect 1.

  6. Yuki-onna: The Snow Woman is a spirit associated with snowstorms. She appears as a beautiful woman in white, but she can be deadly to those who encounter her 3.

These myths not only provide insight into Japanese culture and beliefs but also continue to influence modern art, literature, and popular culture.

Learn more   1. oldworldgods.com   2. flipjapanguide.com   3. mythology.guru   4. tsunagujapan.com   5. thetravel.com

Myths from Korea

 

 

Korean mythology is filled with captivating stories that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the most notable myths:

  1. Dokkaebi (Korean Goblin): Dokkaebi are mischievous goblins known for their tricks and riddles. They are often depicted as fearsome creatures formed from discarded objects stained with human blood 1.

  2. Gumiho (Nine-tailed Fox): The Gumiho is a fox that can transform into a beautiful woman. According to legend, it often seduces men to consume their hearts or livers 1.

  3. Tangun Myth: This is the foundational myth of Korea. It tells the story of Hwanung, a heavenly prince, who descended to Earth and transformed a bear into a woman. Their son, Tangun, is considered the founder of the first Korean kingdom, Gojoseon 2.

  4. Samjoko (Three-legged Crow): This mythical creature is believed to live in the sun and is a symbol of power and good fortune 1.

  5. Haetae (Lion Creature): Haetae is a mythical lion-like creature that is believed to guard against disasters and bring justice 1.

  6. Jeosung Saja (Korean Grim Reaper): This figure is responsible for guiding souls to the afterlife. Unlike the Western Grim Reaper, Jeosung Saja is often depicted as a more neutral figure 1.

These myths not only provide insight into Korean culture and beliefs but also continue to influence modern Korean literature, dramas, and art.

Learn more   1. 90daykorean.com   2. mythology.guru   3. oldworldgods.com   4. pragmaticmom.com   5. ling-app.com   6.   en.wikipedia.org

Myths from Tibet

 


 

Tibetan mythology is rich with stories that reflect the unique cultural and religious heritage of Tibet. Here are some of the most notable myths:

  1. The Creation Myth of Pha Trelgen Changchup Sempa: This myth tells the story of the monkey ancestor of the Tibetan people. According to legend, Pha Trelgen Changchup Sempa arrived in Tibet when the world was covered in water and had children who were baby monkeys. These children eventually learned to use tools and harvest crops, becoming the ancestors of the Tibetan people 1.

  2. The Epic of King Gesar: This is one of the longest epic poems in the world, telling the story of King Gesar, a brave and fearless lord from the mythical kingdom of Ling. The epic details his heroic deeds and battles against evil forces 1.

  3. The Yeti (Abominable Snowman): The Yeti is a mythical creature said to inhabit the Himalayan mountains. Descriptions of the Yeti vary, but it is often depicted as a large, ape-like being covered in fur 1.

  4. The Snow Lion: This mythical creature is a symbol of Tibet and represents strength and fearlessness. The Snow Lion is often depicted in Tibetan art and is considered a protector of the land 2.

  5. The Immured Anchorite: This myth involves monks who take a vow to live their lives in darkness, confined within a small, stony walled space. They meditate in this space for their entire lives, with a single hole to pass food and drink through 1.

These myths not only provide insight into Tibetan culture and beliefs but also continue to influence modern Tibetan art, literature, and rituals.

Learn more 1. en.wikipedia.org   2. oldworldgods.com   3. greattibettour.com   4. gettyimages.com

Myths from Vietnam

Vietnamese mythology is rich with fascinating stories that reflect the country’s culture and history. Here are some of the most notable myths:

  1. The Legend of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ: This is the Vietnamese creation myth. Lạc Long Quân, a dragon prince, and Âu Cơ, a fairy princess, had 100 children who are considered the ancestors of the Vietnamese people. This story symbolizes unity and shared origins 1 2.

  2. The Legend of Sơn Tinh and Thủy Tinh: This tale explains the frequent natural disasters in Vietnam, particularly floods. Sơn Tinh, the Mountain God, and Thủy Tinh, the Water God, competed for the hand of a princess, leading to a perpetual struggle that causes annual floods 1 2.

  3. The Legend of An Dương Vương: This story tells of the ancient king An Dương Vương, who built a spiral-shaped citadel with the help of a golden turtle. The tale ends tragically with the betrayal of the king by his own daughter 1.

  4. The Legend of Hoan Kiem Lake: This legend involves Emperor Le Loi, who received a magical sword from a divine turtle to drive out invaders. After his victory, the turtle reclaimed the sword, and the lake was named Hoan Kiem, meaning "Lake of the Returned Sword" 1 2.

  5. The Three Kitchen Gods (Tao Quan): This myth involves three deities who oversee the household’s affairs and report to the Jade Emperor in heaven. They are honored during the Lunar New Year 1.

  6. The Legend of Lang Lieu and Bánh Chưng: This story explains the origins of bánh chưng, a traditional Vietnamese rice cake. Lang Lieu, a prince, created the cake to symbolize the earth and was chosen as the next king 1.

These myths not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons and reflect the values and beliefs of Vietnamese culture. Do any of these stories stand out to you?

Learn more 1. vietnamisawesome.com   2. atlasmythica.com   3. en.wikipedia.org   4.thesmartlocal.com