Lesson Title: Examining the pilgrim characters in the Monkey King stories
Goals for lesson
- To become familiar with the pilgrim characters in the Monkey stories, and to examine the benefits of groups working together, with each member of the group bringing their own gifts to the effort.
Standard met in Social Studies curriculum / Concepts and themes
- History of Eastern Hemisphere Nations, Culture Empathy/Values
Different peoples may view the same event from different perspectives. - Government of Eastern Hemisphere Nations, Citizenship
Present systems of government have their origins in the past.
The values of the Eastern Hemisphere nations affect the guarantee of human rights and the ways human needs are met.
Activities
Teacher reads a few of the Monkey stories (suggested – 3 stories that the Beijing Opera will be performing) out loud to the class.
Students will have hand out with 4 main characters listed. While story is being read, the students record characteristics of these characters.
Use the “Symbolism of characters in the story” section (at the beginning of this Strand) to discuss the possible symbolism of each character.
Key Questions
- Why could these main characters be referred to as Pilgrims? What is a Pilgrim?
- When you think of Tripitaka, what comes to mind? Monkey? Pigsy? Give examples of where each pilgrim exhibits the traits you have identified.
- How do the characters work together? Could Tripitaka have made the trip alone?
- What is Monkey’s role during the journey? How does he support the group?
- What is Pigsy’s role during the journey? How does he support the group?
Handouts
Worksheet - Match character with description and symbolism associated with the character