Peking Opera Meets Hollywood The Legend of Change
Introduction
The legend of Chang'e, also known as the Moon Goddess, is a famous Chinese mythological story that has been passed down for generations. It tells the tale of a beautiful goddess who lives on the moon with her companion, a jade rabbit. This enchanting story has captured the hearts and imaginations of people around the world. In this article, we will explore how Peking opera meets Hollywood in bringing this ancient Chinese legend to life.
A Brief History of Peking Opera
Peking opera, also known as Beijing opera or Jingju, is a traditional form of Chinese theater that originated in China's capital city during the 18th century. It combines music, dance, acrobatics and acting into one captivating performance art form. With its intricate costumes and makeup designs representing different characters' social status and roles within society.
Hollywood's Influence on Global Pop Culture
In recent years, Hollywood has had an increasing influence on global pop culture through films such as Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (2000), Hero (2002) and House Of Flying Daggers (2004). These movies have not only introduced audiences to ancient China but also brought about renewed interest in traditional forms like Peking Opera.
The Legacy of Chang'e: A Timeless Tale
Chang'e is considered one of China's most revered gods due to her kind heartedness towards humans while she lived among them before ascending to heaven. According to legend when Chang'e ascended into heaven she left behind her precious elixir which could grant eternal youthfulness or immortality if consumed by anyone else other than herself or those from heavenly realm.
This led to many attempting to retrieve it including Hou Yi - an archer god who was tasked by Emperor Yao with shooting down ten suns threatening Earth with extinction; he successfully shot down nine suns but spared his wife Houtianying thus earning him two arrows instead three allowing him access back home whenever he pleased whereupon he would share his portion with her making sure they never ran out at any time keeping their love alive till eternity.
Chang'e's Elixir & The Golden Arrowhead
As per tradition after Hou Yi had shot all ten suns using his magical golden arrowhead called "Qiang Gua" which was said be forged from stars themselves; He then decided return back home but knowing there were more dangers awaiting him decided leave behind Houtianying along with Qiang Gua hoping she could protect himself against evil spirits seeking revenge for killing their beloved Sun God so they wouldn't dare attack him again fearing harm coming upon them too since Houtianying possessed same powers similar strength & speed as Houyi - both having divine origin however being married couple made it even stronger bond between them because each knew what other went through emotionally speaking after sharing experiences together throughout their journey together fighting off evil forces trying destroy Earth from above giving birth countless opportunities creating new stories based upon this very myth itself creating endless possibilities making legends come true!
Conclusion:
In conclusion we can see how both Peking Opera and Hollywood have played important roles in showcasing ancient Chinese legends like 'Chang'E'. Whether it be through grand performances showcasing intricate costumes & makeup designs reflecting various characters within society combined w/ musical instruments harmoniously blending melodies representing emotions felt during play depicting rich cultural history that transcends beyond boundaries timelessness resonating amongst us today!
