Chinese Classics Guide for Mythology Readers
Use classic works as entry points into characters, places, artifacts, idioms, and modern adaptations.
What this guide covers
A classic work page should help readers know what kind of source it is, which figures it shapes, which places and objects matter, and why modern films, animation, games, and overseas searches keep returning to it.
Chinese Classics Guide
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Journey to the West / 西游记
Xi You Ji
The key source for Sun Wukong, Tang Sanzang, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, the pilgrimage route, and many well-known mythological episodes.
Appears in: Classic novel, opera, TV, film, animation, games
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Investiture of the Gods / 封神演义
Feng Shen Yan Yi
A major source for Nezha, Erlang Shen, Li Jing, Taishang Laojun, and many heavenly or Daoist figures in modern visual culture.
Appears in: Classic novel, opera, animation, games
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Eight Immortals stories / 八仙故事
Ba Xian Gu Shi
Stories and images about Li Tieguai, Zhongli Quan, Zhang Guolao, Lan Caihe, He Xiangu, Lu Dongbin, Han Xiangzi, and Cao Guojiu.
Appears in: Legends, theater, prints, decorative art, modern animation
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Chang'e and Hou Yi myths / 嫦娥后羿神话
Chang'e Hou Yi Shen Hua
A myth cycle connected with the moon, immortality medicine, archery, the Jade Rabbit, and Mid-Autumn cultural memory.
Appears in: Ancient myth, poetry, painting, Mid-Autumn Festival culture
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Classic Chinese mythology overview / 中国神话总览
Zhong Guo Shen Hua Zong Lan
A practical starting point for separating classic novels, folk religion, Buddhist imagery, Daoist traditions, and modern adaptations.
Appears in: Cross-source mythology learning