Sample Essays & Free Papers For You

A reliable academic resource for high school and college students.
Essay database with free papers will provide you with original and creative ideas.

Derk Bodde discusses the process of "euhemerization" and presents some anecdotes in which Confucius discusses ancient beings. Discuss this process and why these anecdotes are good examples.

Date Submitted: 09/10/2006 02:55:49
Category: / Law & Government
Length: 2 pages (566 words)
Views: 99727

One of the most interesting aspects of Chinese mythology is that the myths are often closely intertwined with actual Chinese history. The Greek writer Euhemerus defined euhemerization as the process of historical figures becomes accepted as gods over time. In Chinese mythology, the process is often the opposite. The gods and other supernatural beings found in myths become accepted as historical figures over time. This process is called reverse euhemerization. Close studies of traditional history …

Is this essay helpful? Join now to read this particular paper and access over 480,000 just like it!

…a historical figure that are heroes and acquire more than human characteristics. Derk Bodde explained that most myths have a basis of reality. Historical figures who once lived, over time, became more than they were in their lives. Bodde discussed that rather than by mythology, Chinese scholars often do their research based on revisions of texts and documents. Lastly, Bodde showed us that reverse euhemerization can be believed by examining some anecdotes clarified by Confucius.

Need a unique paper?