Ritual, Mask, and Movements

Ritual, Mask, and Movements

Traditional masks are artifacts of profound religious or symbolic significance, often directly linked to their makers and the cultures from which they derive. Anyone who couldn’t say the mask’s significance would nevertheless admire them just by their appearance. Understanding how and why the masks were used would improve one’s respect and comprehension of the people’s cultural customs that made it. This paper describes the ritual in the traditions of masks and movements from a different cultural background.

In Mali, among the people of Bamana, there are  Chi Wara masks. These are headdresses of antelopes used by male and female couples for ceremonial dances to encourage fertility and farming. It also showed them the importance of working hard.  Chi Wara motivated the group hence making them excellent and successful farmers. The community also had Chi Wara dance to sing the praises of a gifted farmer. Other masks found in Mali headdress and full body masks that depict specific animals in the region such as wildcats, buffalos, hippos, and various birds. These masks are also used to celebrate events in the community, funerals, and other rites of passage.

Meanwhile, in Japan, there exist Japanese Noh, which is a form of dance. The dance incorporated music, narration, and symbolic movements in storytelling. It dates back to the 14^th century and is performed by masked male dancers who are highly experienced. This is a tradition that has existed in Japan for several years.

On the other hand, in Greece, there exists a Greek Chorus. The Chorus plays instruments while dancing and chanting. It is performed by skilled singers, dancers, and actors. They appear in uniform and in similar costumes and masks. Apart from the Greek Chorus, they also have City Dionysus that they celebrate during the spring at the time of harvest to honor Dionysus, who they believe was the god of wine, produce,  and fertility.

Provide the references provided here