Exploration on Western and Eastern Culture Differences by Comparison of Vampire and Corpse

Abstract

In recent years, there is an increasing number of global attentions drawn to the western literature works with the theme of vampire including films, series and novels. The Vampire Dairies, True Blood and Twilight novel series and the film adaption and so on, which open the door of history of vampire madness. In contrast, the corpse, as a corresponding image for vampire in China, has blossomed for just about ten years and fades out of public view rapidly. In addition, the study of vampire culture in relation to whose origins, characteristics and clans is kept to continue by the western scholars. However, the records of corpses collected only in Ming and Qing dynasties and barely classified or studied in the following years. The questions are, why the vampire culture is incredible attractive? Why the works on vampire are so popular? Why the vampire culture roots in western culture so deeply? 

This thesis chooses vampire and corpse as two typical images in different cultures. First, it describes the origins and characteristics of them relatively. In addition, it analyses the reasons of their popularity. Furthermore, it explores the differences between western and Chinese cultures with the study of religion and philosophy, specially the view of death and life and concept of soul. 

Exploration on differences between western and Chinese cultures can provide a way to help us understand cultures in different regions exactly, to strengthen the sense of identity to our own culture, and to learn exotic cultures properly.

Key words: vampire, corpse, cultural difference, concept of soul, religion, view of life and death