Chinese Zodiac

Tengboao Chen
Ms. Diggs
COM 2241
June 9th, 2010
Chinese Zodiac
In China, instead of asking your age, people may ask you questions like "what do you belong to?" Don't ever think that you are expected to answer like "I belong to the US." You are supposed to belong to one of twelve animals! That is Chinese Zodiac. According to “What is your Chinese Zodiac Sign” by Shepherd J. on 2003, the Chinese Zodiac is based on a twelve year cycle --- each year being represented by an animal. I think right now you are confused that why were you an animal in China? So it is my pleasure to help you to eliminate the doubt now. Today I am going to introduce you to Chinese Zodiac. First, I will discuss the background. Second, I’ll tell you a story about the legend. Last, I’ll describe your characteristics according to the Chinese Zodiac.
First, let’s talk about the background. In the United States, the years are dated from the birth of Jesus Christ, for example, 2010 means 2,010 years after the birth of Christ. This represents a linear perception of time, with time proceeding in a straight line from the past to the present and the future. However, in traditional China, dating methods were cyclical. According to “The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac” in Publishers Weekly on 2006, cyclical meaning something that is repeated time after time according to a pattern. Every year is assigned an animal name according to a repeating cycle from Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, and Dog to Pig. Therefore, every twelve years the same animal name would reappear.
Second, let me tell you a story. The legend is that one day the gods ordered that animals be designated as the signs of each year with the twelve who arrived first selected. At that time, the cat and mouse were good friends and neighbors. When they heard of this news, the cat said to mouse “We should arrive early to sign up, but I usually get up late.” The mouse then promised to awaken...