Lecture Notes: Asian Mythology and Comparative Analysis

Comparative Creation Myths

• Pan Gu's Body and Earth Creation:
  • World made from Pan Gu's body parts.
  • Similarities to stories of Ymir (Norse) and Tiamat (Middle East).
  • Unique due to Pan Gu's peaceful, willing sacrifice ("made the decision to die").
  • Concept of alloforms: world made from dismembered body parts.

Hindu Creation and Evolution

• Hindu Myth as Evolution:
  • Creation as a progression of elements, interconnected ecosystem.
  • Mention of cosmic egg and earth diver motifs.
  • Reference to "Purusha" creation myth: world created from cosmic being's body, division of social classes.
  • Emphasis on evolution rather than creation.

The Life of the Buddha

• Myth and Monomyth Analysis:
  • Story blends fact and fiction, fits hero's journey (monomyth).
  • Key elements: special birth, call to adventure, threshold crossing, supreme ordeal, enlightenment.
  • Internal struggle as hero's journey vs. physical battle.
  • Importance in comparing cross-cultural stories.

Izanagi and Izanami

• Underworld Journey Motif:
  • Common in myths for rescuing loved ones or seeking wisdom.
  • Clarification: Izanagi (male), Izanami (female).
  • Amaterasu (sun goddess) as prominent kami, nontraditional gender role in patriarchal society.

Concept of Kami

• Definition and Characteristics:
  • Infinite deities with interest in human affairs, associated with purity.
  • Kami as both noun (deity) and adjective (holy).
  • Purity increases kami, pollution decreases it.

Trickster Figures in Japanese Myth

• Fox (Kitsune) as Trickster:
  • Characteristics: rule-breaking, boundary testing, humor, and transformation.
  • Unique attributes: alternates between divine and mischievous, messengers of Inari.
  • Kitsune's nine tails signify increasing wisdom and power.
  • European vs. Japanese fox myths: broader spectrum in Japan, from evil to divine.
  • Cultural significance of kitsune in folklore and mythology.

These notes cover the key points discussed in the lecture, focusing on comparative mythology, creation myths, the hero's journey, and significant mythological figures and motifs across Asian cultures. The lecture emphasized understanding these myths within a broader cultural and literary framework.