Ritualism:

Among the many theories of myth and many theories of ritual, the myth and ritual theory is
distinctive in connecting myths to rituals. The myth and ritual, or myth-ritualist, theory maintains
that myths and rituals operate together. The theory claims not that myths and rituals happen to
go hand in hand but that they must. In its most uncompromising form, the theory contends that
myths and rituals cannot exist without each other. In a milder form, the theory asserts that myths
and rituals originally exist together but may subsequently go their separate ways. In a still milder
form of the theory, myths and rituals can arise separately but subsequently coalesce.

Ritualism is a concept developed by American sociologist Robert K. Merton as a

part of his structural strain theory. It refers to the common practice of going
through the motions of daily life even though one does not accept the goals or
values that align with those practices.
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Analysis and connection to theory of ritualism: chi li slays the serpent

Myth—-->chi li slays the serpent—---> connection to ritualism < —--
—---> women in ancient china is less important than men
—---> most rituals, lowliest types of females in society were the
ones sacrificed (why? Because it has less impact to the society)
—---> rituals exist because of myths
—---> chi li slays the serpent, people believe that the serpent
represents immortality because of its traits of shedding scales every year.

—---> in the myth people in ancient china worship snakes as a

divine spirit because of its traits similar to the serpent.

—---> divine spirit or beast demands offering is common in

ancient mythology
—---> people use rituals and sacrifice to offer to the serpent or
divine spirit in exchange for a bountiful harvest season or for protection for evil spirits etc…

Freudianism:

Myths typically involve gods, heroes, and the use of symbolism to communicate beliefs, and
they frequently feature the theme of good vs. evil. The narrative of Chi Li exemplifies heroism
since the main character demonstrated courage in the face of dread. When the character slayed
the serpent with its intelligence, it demonstrated the triumph of good over evil. People believe
that the serpent is a god of water who provides a fruitful growing season for the people's crops
when they provide human sacrifices, which are young maidens.
Myths reflect strong fears and desires that are taboo and usually unable to be expressed in
society. This simplified Freudian approach makes a claim about what types of stories appeal to
an audience. Stories with taboo desires or fears are the types of stories that sell and are passed
on to the next generation.

Freudianism Theory is a theory that centers around the human Psych. Mainly the I.D. (Instinct),
Ego (Rational/Logic) and Superego (Morals).

In the Myth Chi Li slays the serpent, the main character has shown the relationship between the
three.

In the beginning, Chi li heard about the magistrates looking for a sacrifice to be presented to the
serpent that has troubled their kingdom for years. Almost immediately Chi Li decided to
volunteer to be the sacrifice showcasing her Ego and Superego.
Her rationale is that with her being sacrificed her family (Tan Li, her mother and 6 other older
sisters) will have one less mouth to feed. Thinking that her family won’t be hardpressed on their
expenses. Additionally, she doesn’t want any of her sisters being chosen as a sacrifice. This
thought process has showcased her logic and morality.

Next, Chi Li showcased the relationship between I.D and ego when she was about to face the
serpent. When face with a large serpent with eyes as big as a mirror and a head as big as a
small fishing both, the human instinct will be to run however Chi Li suppressed her instinct with
her logic because of her plan to kill the snake. With that courage Chi Li was able to successfully
slay the serpent freeing the kingdom from the beast.

H&C Theory:

Human capital theory, they do highlight the significance of knowledge, skills, and wisdom in the
context of human progress and development. In the context of mythology there are many stories
that leads to HC theory,These stories highlight how the development and use of human capital
can result in positive results and social developments, reflecting some of the theoretical ideas of
human capital theory in a mythical setting.

In the legend of Li Chi slaying the serpent, Li Chi is a young woman who displays extraordinary
bravery and resourcefulness. The story emphasizes her courage and cleverness in fighting back
a deadly serpent that threatens her village. Li Chi uses her wits and intelligence to outsmart the
serpent and saves her community.

Skills and Knowledge: Chili's journey in the story likely involves her acquiring various skills and
knowledge, which can be seen as an investment in her human capital. This investment enables
her to confront the serpent and protect her community effectively. In this context, the story
illustrates how human capital, in the form of Chili's abilities and know-how, plays a crucial role in
solving problems and achieving success.
Courage and Initiative: Li Chi's bravery in confronting the serpent showcases the importance of
personal qualities. According to the human capital theory, a person's determination, courage,
and desire to take initiative are crucial components of their human capital.

Society Benefits: The actions of Li Chi contribute to the prosperity of her village, highlighting the
societal benefits of individual in human capital theory. By defeating the serpent their community
has now in peaceful condition. The actions of Li Chi contribute to the prosperity of her village,
emphasizing the advantages of a person's human capital.

In summary, human capital theory is applied in the story through Chili's personal growth, her
ability to solve problems using her skills and knowledge, and the positive impact she has on her
community. The story illustrates how an individual's investment in their human capital can lead
to both personal success and the betterment of the community.