Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Monkey King refers to a legendary character from the Chinese novel "Journey to the West" (西游记). He is a mischievous and powerful monkey with supernatural abilities who accompanies the main characters on their journey.
Related terms
Journey to the West: This term refers to the classic Chinese novel written by Wu Cheng'en. It follows the adventures of the Monkey King and his companions as they travel towards enlightenment.
Sun Wukong: Sun Wukong is another name for the Monkey King. It literally translates to "Monkey Awakened to Emptiness."
Tang Sanzang: Tang Sanzang is a Buddhist monk who leads the group of characters in their quest for sacred scriptures.