by Liu Xiang
First published -300
This ancient Chinese compilation from the third century BC to second century AD catalogs the mythical geography of the known world. The text introduces 204 legendary figures including gods like Foremost, Fond Care, and Yellow, plus goddesses such as Queen Mother of the West and Girl Lovely. Many characters appear nowhere else in surviving literature. The work begins with the sacred mountains of central China and expands outward to mysterious territories beyond the oceans. Along the way, it records medical remedies for conditions like impotence and infertility, describes ritual sacrifices, and catalogs both familiar and unknown plants and animals. The compilation also preserves ancient knowledge about reading omens to prevent disasters. Anne Birrell's translation includes introduction and notes to guide modern readers through this eclectic collection of mythology, natural history, and cultural practices from China's distant past.
Genres: anthropology, ancient, cultural-studies
Vibes: intimate, lyrical, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family
Setting: China, West
Period: 3rd Century BC, 2nd Century AD
317 pages · Paperback · Penguin Classics