Mythic Tales of China: A Century of Stories Retold
In the realm of Chinese mythology, there exist a plethora of stories that have been passed down through generations, each with its own unique charm and lessons. The "China Mythic Tales 100" collection is a comprehensive compilation of these tales, offering readers an in-depth look into the rich cultural heritage of this ancient civilization.
One such story is that of Chang'e, the Moon Goddess. According to legend, Chang'e was once a mortal who consumed an elixir given to her by a mischievous monkey god. This led to her ascension to the heavens where she resides on the moon with her loyal companion - a jade rabbit. Her husband Hou Yi returned from his journey as an archer only to find out about Chang'e's transformation and has been watching over her ever since.
Another tale from this collection is that of Meng Po, also known as Forgetfulness or Oblivion. She appears in various forms throughout Chinese literature but most notably in Journey to the West - one half-human and half-demoness who feeds travelers forgetfulness soup at Mount Potalaka before they embark on their spiritual journeys.
The Monkey King Sun Wukong's story is another classic tale within this collection. He gained immortality after consuming peaches from the Peach Garden; however, he also acquired incredible strength and agility which made him nearly invincible except for his vulnerability against Buddha himself.
These are just three examples among many more stories within "China Mythic Tales 100". Each one offers valuable insights into Chinese culture and values while showcasing vivid characters that captivate audiences worldwide.