[The White Whale in Chinese and Western Culture]237

Herman Melville's epic novel "Moby-Dick" tells the tale of Captain Ahab's obsessive pursuit of the titular white whale, a symbol of nature's untamed power. While the novel has been interpreted in various ways by critics over the years, one striking aspect is its complex interplay with Chinese cultural themes.

In Chinese mythology, whales are revered as sacred creatures often associated with longevity and prosperity. The Chinese character for "whale" (鲸) is a combination of the characters for "fish" (鱼) and "king" (王), reflecting the whale's status as the ruler of the sea. This symbolism contrasts sharply with the Western portrayal of the white whale as a fearsome and enigmatic creature.

The white whale in "Moby-Dick" embodies the untamed forces of nature that humans cannot comprehend. Ahab's relentless pursuit of the whale mirrors the Chinese concept of Tianrenheyi, the unity of heaven and humankind. In Chinese thought, humans are not separate from nature but interconnected with it. However, Ahab's obsession with conquering the white whale reflects a Western anthropocentric view that sees nature as something to be dominated and controlled.

Another Chinese cultural concept that resonates with "Moby-Dick" is the Daoist principle of wu wei. Wu wei, meaning "non-action," emphasizes the importance of letting things happen naturally without imposing one's will. Ahab's relentless pursuit of the white whale represents the opposite of wu wei, as it is an act of defiance against the natural order. In Chinese culture, harmony with nature is seen as a virtue, while Ahab's determination to destroy the whale ultimately leads to his downfall.

Furthermore, the white whale's status as a symbol of both good and evil in "Moby-Dick" echoes the Chinese concept of yin-yang. In Chinese cosmology, yin and yang represent the opposing forces that constitute all things. The white whale embodies both creation and destruction, mirroring the yin-yang duality in all aspects of life.

In conclusion, Herman Melville's "Moby-Dick" offers a fascinating exploration of the contrasts between Chinese and Western cultural perspectives. The white whale, a revered symbol in Chinese mythology, becomes a monstrous force in the novel, reflecting the fundamental differences in how these cultures view nature, human agency, and the balance between order and chaos.

2025-01-28

Previous：Individuals Honoring Chinese Culture

Next：Books That Offer a Window into Chinese Culture