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Read China's creation myths, 'The Creation of the Universe and Human Beings.' What types of creation are described in each story (Yin/Yang, Nu Kua, and Pan Ku)? How do you know? Provide evidence and details to support your response. Refer back to Creation Mythology notes or other posted resources for help.

User Flopic
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Final answer:

Chinese creation myths involve various types of creation, from the physical transformation of Pan Gu's body into the natural world, to Nu Kua's intimate crafting of humans, and the philosophical balance of Yin/Yang forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chinese creation myths such as those of Pan Gu, Nu Kua, and the concept of Yin/Yang describe different types of creation. The Pan Gu myth illustrates an earth-diver myth with Pan Gu himself being the agent of creation, whose body parts transformed into various elements of the natural world after his death, connecting humans directly to nature and the cosmos. Nu Kua, the creator goddess, involves a more anthropomorphic creation where she shapes humans from yellow earth, reflecting a more intimate and craft-like act of creation.

The Yin/Yang theory, on the other hand, does not focus on anthropomorphic deities but on the balance of fundamental forces characterized by dualities such as male and female, dark and light, which suggest a more philosophical understanding of the world and its origins. This shift from a more mythological view to a rational, philosophical perspective can be seen in the movement from the mythological age to a time period focused on harmony and balance as essential principles of existence. In this respect, creation is not just a physical act but also a harmonizing act, reflective of the wider cosmological understanding of order and balance in the universe.

User Yanhui Zhou
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