Archer and the Moon Godess

Why does the Earth begin to burn at the start of the myth?

The ten suns, who are the sons of the Jade Emperor, all rise into the sky at the same time out of boredom.

Who is Hou Yi?

A legendary, immortal archer who is sent by the Jade Emperor to save the Earth from the burning suns.

How does Hou Yi save humanity?

He uses his magical bow to shoot down nine of the ten suns, leaving only one to provide warmth.

Why are Hou Yi and Chang'e banished to live as mortals on Earth?

The Jade Emperor is furious and grief-stricken that Hou Yi actually killed his nine suns.

What does the Queen Mother of the West give to Hou Yi?

An Elixir of Immortality, with strict warnings about how its dosage affects humans.

What happens if two people split the Elixir of Immortality?

They will live exceptionally long, youthful lives together on Earth without dying.

Why does Chang'e drink the entire Elixir of Immortality by herself?

To protect it from Hou Yi's greedy apprentice, Peng Meng, who broke into her home with a sword.

Where does Chang'e float to after drinking the elixir, and why?

The Moon, because she wants to stay as close to her husband on Earth as possible.

What modern cultural celebration is directly tied to the ending of this myth?

The Mid-Autumn Festival, where people leave offerings and eat mooncakes to celebrate family unity.

What does the shadow on the moon represent in Chinese mythology?

Chang'e and her companion, the Jade Rabbit, pounding medicine under a tree.