Intangible Heritage. Why is the idea of 'intangible heritage' so important - Essay Example

? Intangible Heritage Question: Why is the idea of 'intangible heritage' so important? Discuss with reference to specific examples. Introduction There are certain events and practices that we regard as significant and hence tend to sustain so it can be shared with future generations. These milestones hold emotional or cultural value for us, shape our underlying beliefs and provide a sense of belonging to a certain cult. Initially, cultural heritage only comprised materialistic artefacts, tangible heritage sites and relic objects that hold religious or cultural significance for certain localities. However, subsequently the definition broadened to include intangible events, rituals and practices that reflected ancient traditions and revived the spirits of sacred beliefs.1 This can include anthems, heroic stories, oral arts, rituals, celebrations and skillful tactics that all relate back to historical traditions inherited from ancestral generations. Various authors have conducted comprehensive studies about national heritage practices and historical artefacts. Most of them have varying opinions regarding the preservation of ancient rituals and some claim that it requires significant level of professionalism and expertise to safeguard or revive the fading cultural heritage as any alteration to originality and spirit of it might enrage societies that pay high regard to such customs.2 Intangible heritage plays a significant part in preserving cultural fortitude in today’s modern world of technology. This phenomenon assists the newer generations to develop an understanding of intercultural differences, familial histories and need for paying homage to all types of ethnicities. Such heritage is also valuable as it enables a society to roll over acquired technical expertise and learnt knowledge to upcoming generations.3 Thus, it is evident that each cultural heritage event has its own significance and needs to be preserved for subsequent generations. This paper focuses on following intangible heritage objects and discusses their respective cultural significance. Music / Performing Arts a) The arts of the Meddah, public storytellers, Turkey This ritual originated from Turkish theatrical event namely Meddahlik, called after meddah who was the storyteller performing this act. It was initially conducted in Turkish language and later was supported in many other languages as it gained popularity in other regions of Asia, including the Middle East and Caucasus. The theme and content of this act was wholly arranged by the meddah who handpicked various legendary songs and historical fables, varying according to the nature and size of audience and context of the event. He would carry out various short entertaining acts, funny parodies and satirical comedy stunts, all influenced by recent political events and tailored according to interests of spectators. This heritage was highly educational and provided a platform for different performers to demonstrate their talents. Turkish people always held high regards for this artistic masterpiece of work as they find it very amusing and creative. The event itself was one of the most anticipated events by the Turkish ancestors as there was no other form of entertainment back then. It was a significant event as it enabled people to meet and socialize with other citizens in nearby localities. Moreover, the rhetorical comedy related to latest series of events happening around the nation was helpful in developing a sense of skepticism towards credibility of political leaders and national government bodies. Overall, the event was a true source of education, entertainment and face-to-face social networking for thousands of people under a single roof. However, in recent years, the pure form of meddah storyteller ritual has faded away and been replaced largely by mass media including television broadcasting, standup comedy shows and movie cinemas. b) The polyphonic singing of the Aka Pygmies, Central Africa The south-western areas of Central Africa are populated with tribal people namely Aka Pygmies who are known for their musical traditions. The polyphonic singing refers to one of such events whereby four different tribal members give their vocal output in the form of a complex polyphonic melody. This output is popular for its spontaneity and innovation such that singers are expected to improvise during the act and modify their pitch and texture of voices to give an evolving feel to the song. Dance also forms an integral part of this musical act and corresponds to the musical vibe created by the sound of clapping of hands by the audience. Mostly, men perform the dancing part but couples or solo female dancers may also be added to the theme if the context of ritual necessitates it. Aka Pygmies are known for their musical and dance ventures used for celebrating all significant events and milestones. Similarly, polyphonic singing is majorly used to rejoice prior to hunting seasons, at the time of commencement of new military camps and subsequent to sad events such as funerals. The methodology adopted in this ritual truly reflects the oldest traditions of African ancestral tribes and thus is very effective in preserving community values and social bonding. To ensure that this practice stays alive and established, Aka Pygmies have incorporated this knowledge into basic educational reforms for children of upcoming generations. This event is substantially promoted and is regarded as nearly mandatory for all tribal people to attend. Polyphonic singing is one of the few leftover musical arts that is still conducted with similar spirits and exists in true folk music form. Language / Oral Traditions a) The oral heritage of Gelede, Benin, Nigeria and Togo Gelede is one of the oldest myths that are still believed and practiced by certain sects of population. This tradition has been known for pacification of many mythical leaders and spiritual predecessors. This oral ritual involves representations through different animals with varying significances, depending on the context of event. For example, a snake shall be used if it is to depict power and treachery while a bird shall be used to exhibit peaceful messenger of mythical mothers. This act is performed every year by the tribe called Yoruba-Nago, residing mainly in areas of Benin, Nigeria and Togo. It usually takes place after the harvesting periods, at significant tribal milestones or in times of famine. The act includes songs in native language about the historical leaders and mythical heroes, accompanied by dances performed by masked and costumed artists. This ritual was originated a century back and has been performed since thereafter. Thus, it holds perpetual significance for the people of Yoruba-Nago as it is tribute to their respectful mythical mother, namely Iya Nla. Additionally, this event creates awareness about empowerment of women and lays emphasis on the pivotal roles played by them in their tribal societies. The actual spirit of this event lies in the great amount of preparatory work that is required prior to execution of this event, including designing of masks and costumes, preparing dance routines and setting the ambiance of the premises. This teamwork brings people together and closer to their old traditions, myths and historical stories that shape their culture. Also, the lyrics of songs are based on their history and thus repetitive singing every year automatically blends and embeds cultural values into their system. b) Oral and graphic expressions of the Wajapi, Brazil Wajapi, a small region situated in Brazil, contains a linguistic tribe called the Tupi-guarani group that resides in more than 40 small villages. They have a famous history attached through Wajapi geographical myths of decorating their bodies with various vegetable colored dyes and their household ornaments and other items with geometric designs such as butterfly or fish etc. These decorations became source for these people of developing and adopting a special kind of communication system that is mainly based on graphical illustrations and verbal cues, reflecting their historical traditions and cultural values. These people are of the view that the level of intellect and maturity that is demanded by this communication art is hard to attain until in later ages. The more creative and learned the artist is, the better he shall be at improvising new patterns and designing unique motifs. This body art displays technicalities and complex meanings that is only understood by the educated classes of Wajapi. Hence, this tradition is regarded highly by the society and every person desires to gain command on it. As the people learn this art deeper, they come closer to their cultural values since only historical patterns and brought forward knowledge can help in identifying and analysing multiple meanings of this art as they are influenced largely by ethnic, social and cultural beliefs. Due to intense significance, this graphic form of art is often treated as the underlying driving force that established the institution of Wajapi’s culture and traditions. However in recent years, this art has substantially loss its presence and importance for Wajapi people, especially younger generations are no longer interested in continuing these traditions. Social Practices / Rituals / Festive Events a) Khmer shadow theatre, Cambodia Originating in Cambodia in the fifteenth century, a ritual called Sbek Thom takes place several times in a year and involves theatrical show using leather puppets. This two meters high theater is known as one of the most commonly practiced arts in modern world. The puppet is carved out of animal skin or leather, painted to generate close resemblances to various characters according to the context of the event and thereafter attached to two bamboo sticks which are used by puppeteers to perform the act. The projection is created on a large white piece of cloth that is suspended with help of bamboo sticks in large fields for spectators to enjoy. While two designated storytellers narrate the script of mythical stories, special dance steps are prepared by artisans, to music played by orchestra, which hold specific significance according to the characters designed for the show. This ritual originates back from Angkorian period and holds a sacred position in minds of Cambodian localities. The special masks and royal ballet themes used in this act have historical significance for these tribes as they are all connected back to divine entities that their ancestors once worshiped. Moreover, the unique events selected for conducting these acts represent traditional and important milestones for masses, including the Khmer New Year or birthday of King prevailing at the time. This occasion has largely evolved over the years from being a regular ceremony to being a respectable and skilful form of art. The special techniques of designing puppets, performing artistically and carrying forward the conventional tactics of ancestors are rejoiced substantially by residents of Cambodia. b) Day of the dead, Mexico This is one of the most religious and respected events that are followed today in territories of Mexico and nearby. These people acknowledge and honor the return of their loved ones that have died in the past, hence the day named Day of the Dead or el Dia de los Muertos. In Mexico, this day has been officially declared national holiday, providing opportunity to the residents to gather for a feast and pray for their relatives who have passed away. This practice is also followed in many other major territories as well such as Brazil and Spain. The honoring tribute is given with the help of favorite food items, beverages and flowers which were liked by deceased ones when they were alive, alongwith their few leftover possessions. In simpler form, people march towards graveyards where dead bodies have been buried and grief their absence while pray for their better afterlife. Taking place between last few days of October to first few days of November every year, this festival combines religious beliefs of pre-Hispanic and Catholic groups. The myth rises back from hundreds of years back when Aztec holiday was celebrated in tribute to their goddess Mictecacihuatl. Today, it holds great emotional significance for each of the citizens of these areas as it presents an opportunity for praying together for valuable lives that were lost in the past. The event builds strong cohesion and relationships between people from all around the nations and creates a spiritual atmosphere. Traditional Crafts/ Knowledge/ Skills a) Zafimaniry woodwork, Madagascar Wood work and artistry is greatly valued by the Zafimaniry communities of Madagascar where this practice is being followed since centuries. This form of art involves a radical transition of wood blocks extracted from forests into masterpiece sculptures and decorative ornaments. The Zafimaniry community has managed to keep this skillful heritage alive from the eighteenth century to date. Since these areas are surrounded by vast green jungles and forestry, the Zafimaniry communities have ease of access to significant quantity and quality of wood. This form of art can be easily found and viewed in almost all day-to-day encounters with wooden houses, walls, decorative articles and other infrastructure. This woodwork technique is a unique skill that is owned by Zafimaniry communities and provides them a sense of belonging and distinctive identity as compared to other cultures. These skills and artistry are often linked by modern generations to all aspects of life and death. Additionally, each type of pattern and drawing designed on such monuments and sculptures truly reflect the cultural and religious values of different people within the same locality. The artisans bearing these skills brought forward from ancestors keep attempting to evolve and introducing some improvisation in drawing new motifs. The symbol created is highly regarded and religiously believed in by the residents as these designs represent different symbolic significance driven from ancestral rituals, beliefs and traditions. Symbols are mostly illustration of mythical heroes and religious leaders. For example, spider’s web is a graphical illustration of bonding between family members while honeycomb depicts community life. Moreover, the design, shape and styling of each decorative ornament exhibit the status and role of an individual in the society. These skills and tactics are brought forward knowledge from old times and are highly valued by new generations as they shape their religious beliefs, social identities and overall culture. Conclusion Intangible cultural heritage is the connecting factor that ties modern generations to their underlying roots. This acts as a mode of establishing mutual respect between diversified cultures and creating awareness of historical backgrounds amongst each other. On other note, it also becomes source of benefiting societies by providing worthy knowledge and enabling them to develop skills and tactics that were once deployed by their ancestors. It is pivotal that intangible heritage is nourished to safeguard it from fading away and being lost forever. Ensuring sustainability of this heritage strengthens cultural values of future generations and creates a concrete framework that shapes their beliefs and establishes cohesive bonds.5 In order to preserve intangible heritage, several techniques are involved that are distinct from ones used in maintaining physical sites and tangible monuments. Safeguarding of intangible heritage stems from repetitive practicing and creating awareness amongst masses. Special days can be allotted for practicing these rituals each year alongwith strong support from regulatory authorities and local government bodies. In order to establish a solid institution, the heritage must be formally documented, promoted and broadcasted on a national level. Mandatory initiatives must be launched that educate people about the historical significance of a certain heritage alongwith guidelines on how to follow them regularly. National heroes and influential public persons must be involved in the movement in order to set an example for the rest as well as to appeal them to join the practice. These measures shall eventually be successful in creating awareness of intangible heritage and preserving it for future generations.6 References 1 Harrison, R. (2012). Heritage: critical approaches. Routledge. 2 Cowell, B. (2008). The heritage obsession: the battle for England's past. Tempus. 3 Vecco, M. (2010). A definition of cultural heritage: From the tangible to the intangible. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 11(3), 321-324. 4 UNESCO (2013). What is intangible cultural heritage? United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, extracted and accessed on 9 August 2013 from (http://www.unesco.org/culture/ich/doc/src/01851-EN.pdf). 5 Condominas, G. (2004). Researching and Safeguarding the Intangible Heritage*. Museum International, 56(1?2), 21-31. 6 Kurin, R. (2004). Safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in the 2003 UNESCO Convention: a critical appraisal. Museum international, 56(1?2), 66-77. Read More