What species of monkey is Sun Wukong? This intriguing question has been pondered by readers of the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West” for centuries. Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, is one of the most iconic characters in Chinese mythology and literature. His origin and species have been a subject of much debate and speculation.
Sun Wukong is depicted as a divine monkey who was born from a peach stone. According to the novel, he was raised by the Dragon King of the West Sea and eventually became the king of the monkeys in the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit. His extraordinary abilities and cunning nature make him a unique and fascinating character.
Some scholars believe that Sun Wukong is a representation of the macaque species, which is a common type of monkey found in Asia. Macaques are known for their intelligence and social behavior, which may have contributed to the association between them and Sun Wukong. Additionally, the monkey’s tail, which is a defining feature of macaques, is also a prominent trait of Sun Wukong.
However, there are those who argue that Sun Wukong is not a macaque but rather a combination of various monkey species. The novel describes his appearance as having a human-like face with monkey-like features, such as a tail and a pointed ears. This suggests that he may be a fictional amalgamation of different monkey species, or even a mythical creature altogether.
Another theory suggests that Sun Wukong is a representation of the golden snub-nosed monkey, which is native to the mountainous regions of China. This species is known for its striking appearance and is often associated with the idea of immortality, which is a recurring theme in “Journey to the West.” The golden snub-nosed monkey’s unique characteristics may have inspired the author, Wu Cheng’en, to create the character of Sun Wukong.
In conclusion, while the exact species of monkey Sun Wukong is a matter of debate, it is clear that he is a mythical creature with elements of various monkey species. His enigmatic nature and extraordinary abilities have made him an enduring symbol of strength, wisdom, and rebellion in Chinese culture. Whether he is a macaque, a combination of monkey species, or a mythical creature, Sun Wukong’s legacy will continue to captivate readers for generations to come.
