Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree: The Eternal Ascetic in the Moon Palace

Character Archetype

Wu Gang: First recorded in Tang Dynasty’s Youyang Zazu, his prototype traces back to Han Dynasty’s Huainanzi “osmanthus tree in the moon”. The name “Gang” (uprightness) reflects Taoist cultivation principles of discipline.

Mythological Development

1. Pre-Qin roots: Chu Ci·Tian Wen hints at osmanthus regeneration concept
2. Han Dynasty formation: Taiping Yulan establishes “500-zhang tall moon osmanthus”
3. Tang Dynasty finalization: Duan Chengshi’s Youyang Zazu details banishment for manslaughter
4. Song Dynasty metaphor: Taiping Guangji adds self-healing tree element

Key Plot Elements

1. Divine Punishment (Youyang Zazu): Banished for killing Emperor Yan’s descendant
2. Eternal Labor (Taiping Guangji): Tree regenerates daily, creating endless cycle
3. Philosophical Symbolism (Tiangong Kaiwu): Osmanthus represents Taoist immortality pursuit

Mythological Relationships

Jade Emperor ── Queen Mother of the West (Immortal Registrar)
           └─ Wu Gang (Banished Immortal)
                  ├─ Chang'e (Moon Guardian)
                  ├─ Jade Rabbit (Potion Maker)
                  └─ Osmanthus Tree (Divine Plant)

Literary Reflections

• Earliest record: Youyang Zazu·Tian Zhi
• Poetic imagery: Li Bai’s “Wu Gang leans on osmanthus, sleepless”
• Opera classic: Sichuan Opera Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus (Qing Dynasty)
• Modern adaptation: Animated film La Luna (2011)

Folk Traditions

Mid-Autumn Festival: 15th day of 8th lunar month

• Customs:
  • Lighting “moon candles” (Dongjing Menghualu)
  • Eating “moon dumplings” (Mengliang Lu)
  • Storytelling during moon worship (Dijing Suishi Jisheng)
• Heritage status: Mid-Autumn Festival listed as National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006

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