Między religią, mitologią a polityką. Chińskie seriale xianxia jako narzędzie soft power na przykładzie Fangs of Fortune .......... 105

BETWEEN RELIGION, MYTHOLOGY, AND POLITICS: CHINESE XIANXIA SERIES AS A SOFT POWER TOOL. A CASE STUDY OF FANGS OF FORTUNE

In recent years, Chinese media has evolved significantly in production, themes, and global reach. Films, series, and games from China now engage international audiences, yet remain tightly controlled by the Communist Party, serving as tools of soft power to shape narratives at home and abroad. This article explores how religious beliefs and mythology in popular culture can promote cultural heritage and national pride. As a case study, Fangs of Fortune – a xianxia drama inspired by the Classics of Mountains and Seas – illustrates this dynamic. The genre blends mythological and Taoist elements to create immersive fantasy worlds, while subtly supporting political narratives. The series reimagines traditional worldviews to legitimize state ideologies and foster national cohesion. By embedding cultural motifs in modern entertainment, it strengthens identity and expands China’s soft power globally. This study contributes to understanding how popular culture influences ideological discourse and international cultural influence.