The Differences between Chinese and Western Cultures based on the Animal Images in Idioms

摘要

Chinese idioms,like English proverbs,are a language form,with a certain philosophical motive and ideological basis,given meaning through people’s lifelong experiences.Throughout the ages,a wide range of beliefs,customs and natural scenery have been condensed into text forms in both Chinese idioms and English proverbs that display certain aspects of the essence of the two cultures.This paper focuses on the study of animal images in idioms,and elaborates on the different interpretations of specific images caused by the differences in history,regions,customs,and values of the two cultures.The purpose of this research is to provide a breakthrough more relevant to students who devote themselves to the study and research of Chinese and English languages and culture from the perspective of cultural contrast and analysis,so as to make a more thorough understanding of differences between Chinese and Western customs,culture and ideology.Therefore,language translations and cultural communications can be improved through a more accurate understanding of the Chinese and Western cultures.