The Journey of Chinese Goddesses: A Mythological Study through the Hero’s Journey Framework

Abstract

Goddesses appear in myths across all societies, serving as primordial deities, creators of life, givers of agricultural abundance, and mothers of the world and heavens. Given the significance of goddesses, this study explores the “life” and “journey” of Chinese goddesses through Christopher Vogler’s Hero’s Journey framework. The study focuses on six well-known Chinese goddesses widely recognized and revered in Thai society: Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy), Mazu (the Goddess of the Sea), He Xiangu (one of the Eight Immortals), Lim Ko Niao, Chang’e (the Moon Goddess), and Nuwa (the Creator of Humankind). The findings demonstrate that Vogler’s Hero’s Journey framework can be applied to analyze Chinese goddesses, though interpretation, modification, and rearrangement of certain stages are necessary. Notable patterns emerge, such as the Ordinary World stage, where Chinese goddesses often face challenges and conflicts within their own families. The Meeting with the Mentor stage typically involves figures associated with the goddess’s religious tradition. Furthermore, key narrative events reflect specific Chinese social and cultural themes, including domestic conflicts within the family and the notion that women’s traditional roles are confined to the household. Success in these myths is often portrayed as a woman stepping beyond the private sphere into the public domain as a divine figure, highlighting gender inequality, familial restrictions, and societal traditions that impose limitations on women.