“The Mythical Creatures of Ancient Texts”
In ancient Chinese texts, the natural world and mythical creatures are vividly described, blending folklore with detailed observations. These creatures often occupy a fascinating middle ground between reality and imagination, serving both as subjects of scientific curiosity and as symbols in myth and legend. The descriptions provided by scholars like Zhang Yi and Guo Pu offer us a glimpse into how these entities were perceived and understood in ancient times.
The term “蜼” (wèi), according to Zhang Yi, refers to a creature resembling a macaque but distinguished by its long tail and upturned nose. Another similar creature, the “玃” (jué), is noted to be larger than a macaque. Meanwhile, “飞蠝” (fēi lěi), or flying squirrels, are described as having the body of a rabbit but the head of a mouse, capable of gliding through the air, a characteristic that aligns with modern understanding of flying squirrels.
Guo Pu expands on these descriptions, adding that the “蠝” (lěi) has purplish-red fur and is also known as “飞生” (fēi shēng). The distinction between male and female in the case of the “玄猿” (xuán yuán) and “素雌” (sù cí) shows an early attempt at understanding gender differences in these mythical beings.
The text delves into more obscure creatures like the “蛭蜩蠗蝚” (zhí tiáo zhuó yóu). According to the historian Xu Guang, “蛭” (zhí) refers to a type of leech, while “蜩” (tiáo) is identified with the cicada. The “蠗蝚” (zhuó yóu), as described by Sima Biao, resembles a macaque but is yellow. The varying interpretations and additional notes from scholars like Guo Pu and Yan Shigu indicate that there was no consensus on these creatures’ exact nature, reflecting the fragmented and evolving knowledge of the time.
In terms of behavior and habitat, these creatures are depicted as highly active and agile, often inhabiting remote and treacherous landscapes. The phrase “夭蟜枝格, 偃蹇杪颠” (yāo jiǎo zhī gé, yǎn jiǎn miǎo diān) describes their playful and sometimes contorted postures as they move through trees. This imagery not only conveys their physical characteristics but also hints at their mysterious and elusive nature.
The passage further narrates how these creatures are seen frolicking in the forests and mountains, living a life of freedom and abundance. The text mentions the “背秋涉冬” (bèi qiū shè dōng) season, when the Emperor would engage in hunting expeditions, described with grandeur and meticulous detail. The hunting party, equipped with elaborate carriages and banners, sets out with great pomp, highlighting the importance of these activities as both royal entertainment and a demonstration of power and control over nature.
The hunt itself is a spectacle, with chariots drawn by mythical “虬” (qiú) dragons and adorned with ornate decorations. The Emperor and his entourage, including notable figures like Sun Shu and the Duke of Wei, participate in this grand pursuit, showcasing their prowess and authority. The hunting grounds are described as vast, encompassing rivers like the Yangtze and the Yellow River, with the sounds of the chase reverberating through the landscape, metaphorically shaking the heavens and earth.
During the hunt, various creatures are targeted, from the fierce “貔豹” (pí bào) to the elusive “野羊” (yě yáng). The hunters, equipped with precision and skill, ensure that each arrow finds its mark, emphasizing the discipline and control expected in such activities. The detailed account of the hunt serves not only as a record of the event but also as a metaphor for order and control in the empire, where even the wildest elements of nature are brought under the ruler’s dominion.
As the hunt progresses, the narrative shifts to describe the environment’s beauty and the creatures’ agility. The phrase “流离轻禽, 槅履狡兽” (liú lí qīng qín, gé lǚ jiǎo shòu) portrays the hunters’ careful and respectful interaction with the delicate balance of nature. This respect for nature is further underscored by the mention of rare and mythical animals like the “白鹿” (bái lù) and the “騕褭” (yàoniǎo), which are considered omens of good fortune and prosperity.
In conclusion, this passage not only provides a rich tapestry of the mythical and natural world as perceived in ancient China but also reflects the cultural and societal values of the time. The descriptions serve to illustrate the intricate relationship between humans and nature, where even the most fantastical creatures are integrated into the fabric of daily life and imperial power. This narrative, thus, offers a window into the ancient Chinese worldview, where mythology, natural observation, and cultural expression are seamlessly interwoven.