Unit 1
Chinese Mythology

Thus we hope to teach mythology not as a study,but as a relaxation from study;to give our workthe charm of a story-book,yetby means of ittoimpartaknowledge ofanimportantbranch ofeducation.

—Thomas Bulfinch

Unit Goals

●To know and be able to tell aboutthe important figures in Chinese mythology

●To be familiar with the historical development of Chinese mythology

●To understand the common themes and features of Chinese mythology

●To learn about some differences and similarities of the Chinese creation story and the biblical story

●To learn useful words and expressions that relate to Chinese mythology and improve English language skills

Before You Read

1.Test your general understanding ofmythology and culture.

1)Is mythology the same as religion?Is Confucianism mythology or religion?

2)As far as you know,how was the world created?Have you heard of other creation stories besides Pan Gu?What do you know about Genesis in the Bible?

3)Do you think scholars as well as primitive people could also create mythical stories?

4)What themes do you think are particularly stressedin Chinese mythology?

2.Give the name of the following myths according to the pictures.