In the classic Chinese tale "Journey to the West," the Monkey King's foil is often seen as the venerable monk Xuanzang (also known as Tang Sanzang). Xuanzang is a figure of humility, selflessness, faith, and unwavering devotion to his quest, which sharply contrasts with the Monkey King's boastful and self-centered nature.
The Monkey King, also known as Sun Wukong, is known for his brash and arrogant demeanor, often emphasizing his own prowess and seeking personal glory. In contrast, Xuanzang exemplifies traits of selflessness, calmness, and unwavering faith in the greater purpose and his journey to retrieve Buddhist scriptures.
Xuanzang's unwavering commitment to his quest brings out both the admirable and flawed aspects of the Monkey King's personality. Xuanzang's humility and selflessness stand as a sharp contrast to the Monkey King's boastful and self-centered behavior. In Xuanzang's presence, the Monkey King's impulsiveness and pride often become more apparent.
As the protagonist, the Monkey King's personality traits are highlighted by his interactions with Xuanzang. For instance, the Monkey King's brashness and arrogance are further magnified when juxtaposed with Xuanzang's calm and humble demeanor. Through this contrast, the audience gains a deeper understanding of the Monkey King's flaws and the internal conflicts he faces.
Additionally, Xuanzang's unwavering faith and dedication to his quest serve to reveal the Monkey King's underlying virtues and growth potential. In moments of doubt or difficulty, the Monkey King's reactions and responses to Xuanzang's steadfastness can highlight his struggle with personal advancement, benevolence, and selflessness.
Furthermore, as the story progresses, the Monkey King's interactions with Xuanzang lead to moments of self-reflection and inner turmoil. The stark disparity between their personalities prompts the Monkey King to question his own conduct and aspirations, ultimately contributing to his character development throughout the narrative.
In conclusion, Xuanzang's foil role in "Journey to the West" provides a unique lens through which the personality traits of the Monkey King, the protagonist, are illuminated. By emphasizing the distinction between their characters, the storytellers can effectively convey the Monkey King's journey of self-discovery, growth, and spiritual transformation.