Origin of the Chinese New Year

Informative Speech On the Origin of the Chinese New Year
COM380 Public Speaking
Student’s Name:
Course #/Section:
Introduction.

I.

Attention Getter:

The Chinese New Year is one of the most important events in Asian and Chinese culture. In 2022, it was celebrated between 21st January and 20th February and is usually marked by up to 15 days of celebrations.

II.

Thesis Statement:

Given the sheer number of people that celebrate the Chinese New Year, it is no longer just a national event but also a global celebration.

III.

Connection with Audience:

But what is the origin of this celebration? What does it represent as a symbol of the Chinese culture, and why has it been a mainstay across generations and dynasties? In this presentation, I intend to answer some of these questions. As we can all tell, cross-cultural interactions are a critical trait of the modern world. Therefore, this speech is intended to expand on this trait by shedding light on the importance of this annual affair.

IV.

Speaker’s Credibility:

My name is [ Name], and I am a student.

V.

Preview of Main Points:

In the speech, I will touch on the myth behind the celebration while striving to place a timeframe on when it began. Then I will elaborate on the importance of the celebration while highlighting the key activities that take place. I will then conclude by indicating why it is a global event.

Body

I.

Main Point One:

Origin of the Chinese New Year



Sub-point A:

The Chinese New Year is connected to the Legend of Nian. The legend speaks of a beast that lived thousands of years ago who would attack villagers at the beginning of each year CITATION Woo201 \l 2057 (Woo & Chan, 2020). Later, it was discovered that loud noises and bright colors (especially color red). This explains why the celebration is marked by fireworks, firecrackers, and red decorations and clothes. Thus, the celebration marks the ushering out of the old year and the new year with the prospects that the latter has good fortunes and prosperity.



Sub-point B:

Historians date back to the Chinese New Year to the Shang Dynasty in the 14th century BC. According to Yong Chen CITATION Yon15 \n \t \l 2057 (2015), a Research Professor of the Chinese Philosophy and Religion, the holiday has ancient roots in China as a society dependent on agriculture. It marked the only day that Chinese farmers could rest from the annual day-to-day activities. Today, it is celebrated by over 2 billion people within and without Chinese borders.


Transition:

Among the key attractions during the celebrations is the symbols used, the choice of colors and dances, food, and the coming together of family members.

II.

Main Point Two:

Importance of the Celebration

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