Taiwanese Visiting Instructor Shares the Legend of the Dragon

According to the Chinese Zodiac calendar, 2024 is the year of the dragon, which occurs once every 12 years. The University community is invited to join Taiwanese visiting instructor Lily Chiang on March 25 as she teaches  about the symbolism of the dragon in China and Taiwan and shares the legend of the dragon. The dragon is a symbol of Chinese culture.

“We say that we are 'descendants of the dragon,'” she said. Dragon carvings or totems can be seen in temples, buildings, and decorations in Taiwan. In ancient times, only emperors could wear "dragon" robes.

As part of the Taiwanese cultural activities, she will tell the story of the 12 zodiac signs, the legend and symbol of the dragon. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn about Chinese culture, taste Taiwanese traditional snacks and make a cute Chinese dragon to take home.

Lily, or Chiang Yun, is the Chinese visiting instructor from Taipei, Taiwan. She graduated from Zhong Yuan University with a bachelor’s degree in teaching Chinese as second language. After graduation, she taught at an international Chinese school in Korea for six years and can speak Korean, as well as Mandarin Chinese. She also attended National Taiwan Normal University, where she obtained a master’s degree.

“I like Chinese. Chinese is a beautiful language with a lot of culture and history,” said Chiang Yun, who is in her second and final year at The University of Scranton, where she has taught elementary through advanced Chinese.

“I am honored to teach in Scranton. I wish to bring my knowledge to students, I believe (教学相长) students can learn from me and I can learn from them, too.”

To learn more about and experience Taiwanese culture, join us on on March 25 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. in Leahy Hall, Kane Forum, Room 235.

This event is sponsored by the World Languages and Cultures Department. Contact Hannah Grijincu at Hannah.grijincu@scranton.edu with questions.