Abstract

This work is a study of the cultural transmission of Chinese mythical beings into the Western cultural sphere. Using textual analysis and interviews with Chinese and Chinese-Americans in the United States, I engaged in the hermeneutical process so as to create a comprehensive understanding of the cultural translation of these mythical creatures. Throughout this process I reevaluated and redeveloped my personal understanding of the nature of these beings and found, unexpectedly, the significant role of a creature's visual appearance in its transmission into the Western cultural realm.

Advisor

Tierney, Thomas

Second Advisor

Graham, Mark

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

Disciplines

Chinese Studies | Folklore | Sociology of Culture

Publication Date

2009

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2009 Emily Swoveland