earticle

영어

In order to examine the cultural meaning of tigers in Chinese proverbs, this study discusses the semantic qualities of ‘虎’ [tiger] in Chinese proverbs and related cultural symbols and emotional meanings. It also examines Chinese people’s shared notion of tigers in Chinese folk culture. In Chinese folk culture, tigers have a positive image as auspicious animals and patron saints that protect themselves and pray for health and peace. For example, there is a custom among Chinese people to present tiger-shaped dolls, hats, shoes, and pillows to young children. This custom means wishing for children to grow up healthy and vigorous. In ancient times, soldiers carried clothes, hats, and weapons that symbolize tigers to protect themselves from danger. And in ancient times, the Chinese painted tigers on doors to prevent bad luck. However, in other proverbs, tigers a positive as well as negative image. For example, in Chinese proverbs, the strong and fierce nature of the tiger is associated with a positive evaluation of a person, connoting the semantic features [+courageous], [+majestic], [+talented], and [+exceptional] but is also associated with the negative evaluation of a person or situation, connoting [+wicked] and [+perilous]. Additionally, having a [+strong (vitality)], the tiger is likened to a certain energy or a great degree of power; here, once again the tiger is associated with a positive evaluation, connoting [+vigor], among other features. In proverbs that reflect superstitious ideas, tigers connote [−luck] as a negative force that brings disaster. From this perspective, tigers in Chinese proverbs and folk culture present different meanings.