104 學年度學測英文 第 21 題

Much like the dove and robin, the bluebird is considered a very lucky sign in most cultures, particularly when seen in the spring. 21, a woodpecker, when seen near the home, is regarded as a good sign. In contrast, the peacock is not 22 seen as lucky. In places like India, the peacock is considered lucky because the great many “eyes” on its feathers are said to alert it to 23 evil. Peacocks are also highly valued in China and Japan, where they are kept as symbols by the ruling families to 24 their status and wealth. However, the peacock receives only scorn from the rest of the world. The feathers of peacocks are considered the most 25 part of the bird because the eye-shaped markings on them are associated with “evil eyes.” To bring the evil eye into the home is thus believed to invite trouble and sorrow.