Lecture (3) Wierd Islands, the Palaces of Dragons, and Tengu

This podcast lecture, Weird Islands, the Palaces of Dragons, and Tengu, delves into Japanese folklore's rich tapestry of supernatural tales and their enduring cultural significance. Through the lens of Tengu and Dragon King stories, the lecture examines metaphors for humanity's struggle with life, death, and power. Tengu, with their dual roles as tricksters and mentors, highlight the necessity of humility and discipline when confronting nature's unpredictability, while the Dragon King's Palace serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of overreaching human boundaries. Situating these narratives within a global context, the lecture explores how folklore—from Greek myths to African legends—shapes societal values and offers moral guidance. By unpacking these timeless tales, this session reveals how cultural heritage and storytelling continue to provide lessons for navigating the complexities of both historical and contemporary life.