Why Sun Wukong? The Co-Protagonist Dynamic in Journey to the West

Many readers may have the same questions, why was Sun Wukong chosen to protect Tang Monk on the pilgrimage? And were there alternatives to Wukong?

The Dual Narrative Framework

Two threads intertwine throughout the novel: The overt thread follows Tang Monk’s journey from Chang’an starting in Chapter 12, enduring eighty-one tribulations to retrieve scriptures. The covert thread traces Sun Wukong’s inner transformation—from demon to Buddha—beginning in Chapter 1.

These parallel narratives drive the story. The overt thread showcases external challenges and teamwork, while the covert one reveals character growth. Together, they elevate Journey beyond adventure into a study of humanity, redemption, and camaraderie.

Questioning the Premise

Returning to our core question: Why Wukong? And could others replace him?

The premise itself is flawed. Alternatives did exist—like the Black Bear Spirit. This formidable yet cultured demon, friend to the Golden Pool Elder of Guanyin Temple, possessed martial prowess, diplomatic skill, and deep knowledge of Buddhism and Daoism. He was a viable candidate.

Wukong: The True Scripture-Seeker

Yet asking “Why Wukong?” misunderstands the narrative. Tang Monk is the ostensible scripture-seeker; Wukong is the true protagonist.

Narrative Primacy:

The novel opens with the Monkey King. Seven full chapters detail his birth, training, and rebellion. Tang Monk’s backstory (now Chapter 9 or an appendix) was a later addition from external sources.

Character Arc Focus:

Wukong’s evolution dominates the text:

• Early chapters show his defiance: raiding the royal arsenal, seizing the Compliant Golden-Hooped Rod, erasing his name from the Book of Life and Death, and wreaking havoc in heaven.
• Initially, he solves problems through brute force, lacking empathy (e.g., killing the White Bone Demon despite Tang Monk’s protests).
• Later, he tempers his pride: enduring criticism, ignoring Zhu Bajie’s taunts, volunteering for reconnaissance/mission tasks, leveraging connections, seeking help when needed, and prioritizing diplomacy over violence.

Tribulation Ownership:

Among the eighty-one tribulations:

• Most involve Tang Monk, but Wukong actively participates in many.
• Some tribulations belong solely to Wukong (e.g., the Flame Mountain ordeal).
• Notably, subjugating Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing each count as tribulations—but taming the Monkey King does not. This omission confirms Wukong’s co-protagonist status.

Conclusion

Why Sun Wukong? Because he isn’t a side character—he is the heart of the journey.