China has always been a multicultural society and its mythology seems to reflect that. The many different cultural groups in China not only have their own cultures but their own languages too. Much of Chinese mythology originated in regional areas and then spread through pictography.

In many countries mythology is often spread through oral traditions. In China oral traditions have not played a large role in the spread of its mythology. Ancient Chinese mythology is a combination of religious beliefs and folktales. These were passed on to teach morals and good behavior.  

The reason why oral traditions did not fare as well as images was because every person in society could easily understand the message. The largely uneducated and illiterate population of ancient China could also understand the message in these images.

Philosophy and religion have been the main influencers on Chinese mythology. Sometimes some myths aim to show the conflict between religious practices. The story of the Monkey King in particular tries to show some of the conflicts between Taoists and Buddhists.

Ancestral worship has long had its roots in Chinese beliefs. In particular during the Shang dynasty there is evidence to suggest that ancestral worship was widespread. When a person died they would be worshipped as gods by their descendants.

Confucianism was born and grew during the 6th century. It was founded by the philosopher Confucius. During the Han dynasty this philosophy became the official belief of the country. Unlike other religious beliefs, Confucius was more concerned about family than mythology.

Taoism began to emerge in China soon after this and began to heavily influence mythology. Taoist beliefs were very popular amongst the working classes and poor people. The religion was a religion that was itself influenced by nature. Over time the belief developed and many deities were introduced. With these deities, myths and legends became associated.

The Silk Road connected many countries and cultures in the ancient world. Buddhism was first introduced to the Chinese through this way. Initially many Chinese were reluctant to accept this way of life as it lacked deities and thus did not appeal to the masses.

The way that Buddhism began to be accepted was Buddhism’s acceptance of deities. Many native deities were mixed with this new religion and so it became very popular. Other religions such as Hinduism and Islam also influenced Chinese mythology.

Over time Chinese mythology managed to survive and adopt new beliefs. These myths and legends affected ancient Chinese society and culture. Even today much of China’s art, literature, sculpture and films are influenced by these legendary tales.