**English Essay: The History and Legends of Dragon Boat Festival**
The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of the most significant traditional festivals in China. It is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month according to the Chinese calendar. This essay will explore the historical origins and legends associated with the Dragon Boat Festival.
**Historical Origins:**
The festival has its roots in ancient China, with its origins dating back to the Warring States period (475-221 BC). The most popular explanation for the festival's establishment is related to the death of the patriotic poet Qu Yuan. Qu Yuan was a loyal minister during the Chu Dynasty. When he learned of the betrayal and decline of his kingdom, he drowned himself in the Miluo River in despair. In order to prevent fish from eating Qu Yuan's body, local people threw rice into the river. Subsequently, they formed teams to paddle long boats and race them on the river in Qu Yuan's memory.
**Legends:**
1. **Qu Yuan's Suicide and Rice Throwing:**
As mentioned earlier, the story of Qu Yuan's *** in the Miluo River is the central legend of the Dragon Boat Festival. It symbolizes loyalty, patriotism, and the pursuit of righteousness.
2. **Zhao Yun's Resurrection:**
Another legend involves the general Zhao Yun from the Three Kingdoms period. When Zhao Yun's son fell into a river, people raced boats to rescue him. Since then, the festival has been associated with the general and his bravery.
3. **Dragon Boats and Dragon:**
The dragon boat itself is a symbol of the dragon, which is considered a sacred creature in Chinese mythology. The boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival are believed to honor the dragon and seek its blessing for good fortune and health.
**Customs and Activities:**
The Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated with various customs and activities. People traditionally eat zongzi, a sticky rice dumpling filled with ingredients such as pork, red bean paste, or lotus seed. Dragon boat races, dragon dances, and lantern shows are also popular activities during this festival.
In conclusion, the Dragon Boat Festival is a rich tapestry of historical origins and legendary stories. It serves as a reminder of loyalty, bravery, and the pursuit of righteousness, making it an enduring symbol of Chinese culture and heritage.
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**English Handout: The Dragon Boat Festival**
[Title: The Dragon Boat Festival]
[Subheading: The History and Legends]
**Origin:**
The Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. It originated in ancient China during the Warring States period, with its roots in the death of the poet Qu Yuan.
**Legends:**
- **Qu Yuan:**
Qu Yuan was a loyal minister who drowned himself in the Miluo River in despair. To prevent fish from eating his body, people threw rice into the river.
- **Zhao Yun:**
The general Zhao Yun's son fell into a river, and people raced boats to save him. This event is believed to be the origin of the dragon boat races.
**Activities:**
- **Dragon Boat Races:**
Compe***s paddle long boats, racing to the beat of drums to honor the dragon and seek its blessings.
- **Eating Zongzi:**
Zongzi, a sticky rice dumpling, is a traditional food eaten during the festival.
- **Lantern Shows:**
Colorful lanterns are displayed, symbolizing happiness and prosperity.
**Conclusion:**
The Dragon Boat Festival is a time to remember history, legends, and the spirit of unity and courage. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of China.
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