Chinese LegendsFamous Heroes

The Ballad of Mulan

A devoted daughter disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the Imperial Army.

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Illustration for The Ballad of Mulan - a famous heroes Chinese Legends story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Discover the legendary tale of The Ballad of Mulan, a brave daughter who disguised herself as a soldier to save her father and serve her country with honor.

In ancient China, a young woman named Hua Mulan sat at her loom, sighing as she saw her aging father's name on the imperial conscription list. Knowing he was too frail to survive the war against the Northern invaders, she made a daring choice. She cut her hair, donned her father's armor, and purchased a sturdy horse. Disguised as a man, she joined the army in his place. For twelve long years, Mulan fought with incredible skill and bravery, rising through the ranks to become a respected commander. Throughout a decade of conflict, her secret remained undiscovered. When the war finally ended, the Emperor offered her high honors and a position in the government. Mulan gracefully declined, asking only for a swift camel to carry her back to her village. Upon her return, she shed her military gear and dressed in her old robes. When her former comrades came to visit, they were astonished to find that the fierce warrior who had fought alongside them for years was actually a woman.

The Moral

True bravery and devotion to family transcend gender, proving that honor is found in one's actions and character.

“But when two hares run side by side, who can tell which is he or she?”

Fun Fact

The original 'Ballad of Mulan' does not feature a dragon sidekick or a love interest; it focuses almost entirely on her filial duty and her return to domestic life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of The Ballad of Mulan?

The story teaches that courage, loyalty, and filial piety are not restricted by gender. It emphasizes that a person's worth is defined by their deeds and their devotion to family and country.

Was Mulan a real person?

While there is no definitive historical evidence, many scholars believe the legend may be based on a real woman from the Northern Wei dynasty. She remains a powerful symbol of Chinese strength and cultural identity.

What does the name Mulan mean?

In Chinese, 'Mulan' translates to 'magnolia.' This floral name serves as a poetic contrast to her warrior persona, symbolizing grace and resilience in the face of harsh conditions.

How long did Mulan serve in the army?

According to the original ballad, Mulan served for twelve years before returning home. During this entire period, she successfully kept her true identity hidden from her fellow soldiers and superiors.

Why did Mulan refuse the Emperor's reward?

Mulan valued her family and her home more than titles or wealth. Her primary motivation was to fulfill her duty to her father, and once the war was over, her only wish was to return to her previous life.

When was the original poem written?

The 'Ballad of Mulan' was likely composed during the Northern Wei dynasty (386–534 AD) and was later transcribed during the Tang dynasty. It has been adapted into countless plays and films over the centuries.