Peking Opera and Ancient Myths The Story of Change
The Peking Opera, a traditional form of Chinese theater known for its elaborate costumes, dramatic makeup, and intricate dance movements, has been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries. However, few people realize that the stories performed in these operas are often rooted in ancient Chinese myths. One such myth is the story of Chang'e and Hou Yi.
The Mythological Background
In ancient China, there lived a mortal man named Hou Yi who was renowned for his exceptional archery skills. He was so skilled that he could hit any target with precision from miles away. One day, ten suns appeared in the sky at once causing chaos on earth as it became scorching hot during the day. Without hesitation or fear for his life, Hou Yi shot nine of the suns down to prevent further destruction.
As a reward for his bravery and selflessness, he received an elixir of immortality from the gods. However this gift came with a price - if consumed by mortals it would grant them immortality but also lead to eternal suffering due to their inability to cope with heaven's joys forever.
Chang'e's Downfall
Hou Yi married Chang'e (also known as Chang O), who was also considered one-of-a-kind because she had ascended to become one of only three female celestial beings living among stars - her name means "eternal beauty." She resided on Moon Palace where she drank nectar instead consuming food like other celestial beings.
One day while her husband went out hunting rabbits in order not only feed himself but also help others gain food after they were affected by drought due to extreme weather conditions brought about by killing some solar bodies; unknown to him that all members had drunk water together making everyone sick even worse than before then decided go back home immediately without informing anyone else including wife which led him being separated from family leaving behind wife alone at home when suddenly someone else took advantage upon seeing beautiful goddess alone inside house took advantage upon seeing beautiful goddess alone inside house offered her immortal elixir saying 'you deserve better' believing that will be happier if drink more than just eating foods
However unaware how much danger this action held as now both humans have acquired heavenly powers resulting into having magical abilities granting power over elements nature itself allowing them live long time however their souls remain trapped within body unable enjoy peace nor happiness leading miserable lives till end eternity
When he discovered what happened later found out through divine intervention revealed truth about love lost returned back home trying make things right apologized & forgave each other showed deep love shared between two made everything alright again happy ever after ending
This story teaches us lesson about importance honesty trust faithfulness loyalty friendship family unity keeping promises maintaining harmony balance within ourselves world around us respect our elders especially those wise kind hearted understanding patience compassion forgiveness never forget past always remember learn grow stronger wiser person becoming good human being
