Chang'e
Chang'e drinks the elixir of immortality and ascends to the moon, separated from her archer husband Hou Yi. She lives with the jade rabbit, inspiring Mid-Autumn Festival mooncakes and lanterns that honor reunion and distance.
Story beats
- 1) Hou Yi receives an elixir after shooting down nine suns; he saves it to share with Chang'e.
- 2) Depending on the version, Chang'e drinks it to prevent theft or from desire, floating to the moon.
- 3) On the moon she befriends the jade rabbit, pounding elixir; Hou Yi offers her favorite foods from below.
- 4) Mid-Autumn gatherings under the full moon celebrate reunion, sending wishes skyward.
Context & symbolism
Chang'e’s tale blends love, sacrifice, and unintended consequence. The moon becomes a mirror for longing and hope of reunion, while the rabbit symbolizes renewal. Mooncakes and lanterns embody offerings and shared remembrance.
The story also warns about immortality’s price: eternal life distanced from loved ones.
Motifs
- Elixir of immortality
- Jade rabbit pounding medicine
- Full moon feasts and mooncakes
- Separation and distant devotion
Use it in play
- Join a festival quest to send a message to the moon; lantern puzzles align with moon phases.
- Retrieve an elixir ingredient from the moon rabbit’s mortar.
- Mediate between lovers separated by realms, choosing immortality or reunion.
- Seek Chang'e’s blessing for safe night travel; honor her with offerings.