Myths & Legends of China

In this fascinating and comprehensive collection of Chinese myths and legends, E. T. C. Werner drew upon material readily available to him as a member of the Chinese government's' Historiographical Bureau in Peking. A former barrister and British consul in Foochow, Werner presents a wealth of information illuminating the ideas and beliefs that governed the daily lives of the Chinese people long before the revolutions of the 20th century.

Offering a provocative glimpse into a world dominated by traditional rules of etiquette and inhabited by demons, dragon-gods, and spirits, the volume opens with an introductory chapter on the origins of the Chinese people. In succeeding chapters, Mr. Werner's readable, well-illustrated text considers the gods of China and myths of stars, thunder, lightning, wind and rain; of water and fire; of epidemics, medicine, and exorcism; as well as tales about the goddess of mercy, the guardian of the gate of heaven, accounts of how the Monkey became a god, and much more.

In addition, 32 striking illustrations depict such traditional deities as the Spirit That Clears the Way, civilian and military Door Gods, the Kitchen-God, Dragon-Gods, the Gods of Happiness, Office, and Longevity, and others. Engrossing and informative, Myths and Legends of China will appeal not only to lovers of folklore but to anyone interested in Chinese art, culture, or philosophy.

Ernest John Eitel, better known by his pen name E.T.C. Werner (1864–1954), was a British diplomat, sinologist, translator, and author whose writings introduced Western readers to the rich traditions, folklore, religion, and mythology of China. Combining years of firsthand experience with careful scholarship, Werner produced accessible works that helped bridge cultural understanding at a time when relatively little accurate information about Chinese civilization was available in the English-speaking world. His books remain valuable resources for readers interested in Chinese history, legends, and traditional beliefs.

Werner was born in London, England, in 1864. After completing his education, he joined the British Consular Service and was posted to China, where he spent many years serving in various diplomatic positions. Living in China gave him the opportunity to study the country's language, customs, religious practices, and literary traditions in depth. Rather than relying solely on secondhand accounts, Werner immersed himself in Chinese culture, developing a lifelong interest in its history and mythology. His diplomatic career provided both practical experience and intellectual inspiration, enabling him to write with unusual insight and authenticity.

Following his retirement from diplomatic service, Werner devoted much of his time to research and writing. His best-known work, Myths and Legends of China, presents a comprehensive collection of Chinese creation stories, legendary heroes, deities, dragons, immortals, and folk traditions. Written in a clear and engaging style, the book introduced countless readers to the imaginative world of Chinese mythology. He also authored A Dictionary of Chinese Mythology, The Lore of the Chinese, and several other studies that explored Chinese religion, folklore, and cultural history. Through these works, Werner sought to explain complex traditions in a way that was both informative and approachable.

Although some aspects of his scholarship reflected the perspectives and academic methods of his era, modern researchers continue to recognize his contributions as an important early interpreter of Chinese culture for Western audiences. His extensive documentation of myths, legends, and religious traditions has preserved valuable material that continues to interest historians, students, and general readers.

E.T.C. Werner passed away in 1954, leaving behind a distinguished legacy of cross-cultural scholarship. His writings fostered greater appreciation of China's literary and spiritual heritage and encouraged deeper understanding between Eastern and Western cultures. Today, he is remembered as a dedicated scholar whose curiosity, careful research, and engaging storytelling helped bring the richness of Chinese mythology and tradition to readers around the world.