"The Legend of the White Snake" is one of China's four great folk legends, originating from "The White Maiden Eternal Suppression Beneath Leifeng Pagoda" in Feng Menglong's *Stories to Caution the World* from the Ming Dynasty. The phrase "The Legend of the White Snake" is not a strict idiom, but rather refers to this classic tale of love between a human and a supernatural being. Its deeper meaning is often used to symbolize love that transcends worldly boundaries and conventional norms, especially deep affection between humans and non-human beings (such as spirits, immortals, or ghosts). It is commonly used in literary and film criticism or everyday metaphors to describe devoted yet socially unaccepted love. In terms of cultural background, it reflects the conflict between the ancient yearning for free love and feudal ethical codes, carrying emotional tones of romance, tragedy, and a spirit of resistance. The White Maiden's willingness to accept punishment for love, Xu Xian's weakness, and Fahai's obstruction together form a poignant narrative that often prompts reflection on the nature of love.
📝 Example
1. Their love is like a modern-day Legend of the White Snake, overcoming barriers of race and culture. (A metaphor for steadfast love that transcends worldly boundaries.)
2. This film transplants the story of Legend of the White Snake into a futuristic city, and the romance between human and spirit is still deeply moving. (Refers to the classic love pattern of romance between humans and spirits.)