Study On The Metamorphosis Narratives Of

This study focuses on the research of metamorphosis narratives of which plays an important role in Chinese Literature of Six Dynasties. Six Dynasties was the period of the wars, plaques, and political instability. Despite the pervasive turmoil, the arts flourished and evolved, especially "Strange Stories" which is known collectively as Zhiguai or "accounts of the strange". The quantity of Zhiguai narratives is overwhelming, and "Metamorphosis" is one of the main motifs and themes.The metamorphosis narratives of reflect the values and spirits of Six Dynasties. These narratives and the metamorphosis theories of Six Dynasties are closely correlated and formed a "Metamorphosis discourse". Also the narratives are closely connected with Chinese Mythology. The mythology of Chinese culture and civilization is contained in a variety of sacred narratives which tell how the world and human society were created in their present form. The metamorphosis narratives of reflect a valuable and exciting treasure trove of mythic themes, motifs and archetypes.To begin with, this study is started with the definition of "Metamorphosis". When a metamorphosis occurs, a figure of a narrative develops or changes into something different. The figure which transcends human power such as a god or a deity is an essential prerequisite in occurring metamorphosis. Metamorphosis can be divided into two categories. The first category is "Dynamic metamorphosis(力东变形)",which concerns that a figure become metamorphosed into another figure, and the second is "Static metamorphosis(静态变形)"which concerns that a figure become metamorphosed by developing or deforming the body.Next, according to the motifs and themes, the narratives can be divided into five categories-Immortal Taoist hermit(神仙)narratives, numinous and inspirational(神灵感应)narratives, narratives with natural calamity and peculiar natural phenomena(灾异说),narrative with the change of spiritual energy which is related to Yin Yang and five elements(气化说)and other narratives. Then the research and analysis of the narratives is continued.