李冰斗河神.doc

李冰斗河神的故事-中国神话故事英语版
中国历史上最激动人心的工程不是长城,而是都江堰。在秦始皇下令修长城的数十年前,四川平原上已经完成了一个了不起的工程。它的规模从表面上看远不如长城宏大,却注定要稳稳当当地造福千年。关于李冰有一个神话传说,就是斗河神,传说河神每年都要两个黄花闺女做自己的媳妇。李冰把自己的两个女儿送给河神,酒祭河神并与之大战N个回合的故事。
When King Zhao of Qin conquered Shu , he appointed Li Bing governor of the area. At that time there in the river was a river deity(河神), who each year demanded two virgins as his wives. One day, the official responsible for the matter came to report to Li, "This time a million copper coins must be collected to buy two women for the deity." "Don't worry," Li forted him, "I have got girls for him already." When the day came, Li had his two daughters properly dressed, ready to be thrown into the river. He stepped onto the terrace for the ceremony and poured a libation, saying, "Today, I am greatly honoured to e a relation of yours. Please, my River God, come out and honour the occasion with your respected presence, and allow me to propose a toast to you." After saying these words, Li emptied his cup, put it down and waited. The wine in the cup for the deity, however, only stirred a little and remained full to the brim. Flying into a rage at this, Li said in a stern voice, "Since you look down upon me so, I have no choice but to fight you." Li drew out his sword, and the next moment disappeared. Quite a while later, two grey buffaloes were seen fighting on the other side of the river. Soon, Li reappeared