Nuo masks: Cultural Identity, Protection Inheritance and Development of Maonan Ethnic in Guangxi

Abstract

The Nuo mask culture of the Maonan ethnic group in Guangxi has distinct regional and national characteristics, has important historical significance and cultural value, and provides an important research sample for this paper. This qualitative research has 3 objectives: 1) To study the history and origin of Maonan ethnic and Nuo masks in Guangxi; 2) To study the current problem cultural identity of Maonan Nuo masks; 3) To Study the Protection inheritance and development of Nuo masks in Maonan people. This study went to Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County, Maonan Museum, Xianan Township Nanchangtun and other places for field investigation and research several times from September 2022 to June 2023. This study uses qualitative research methods, Collect organizational data through field research, in-depth interviews and observations, Researched and analyzed relevant information and literature on the Nuo masks of the Maonan ethnic group in Guangxi. The information providers for this study selected government officials, Nuo mask inheritors, Maonan elders, village cadres, Maonan teenagers, Maonan scholars, museum interpreters, tourists, etc., a total of 34 informants. The research results were obtained through data collection and analysis:

The results of this study follows: 1) During the Qin Dynasty, the Maonan area was inhabited by a branch of the "Luoyue ethnic group". By the Ming Dynasty, foreign populations migrated from Hunan, Fujian, Shandong, Guizhou and other places, and intermarried with the local aborigines for a long time and multiplied to this day. Eventually, The current Maonan tribe was formed. The changes in the Maonan Nuo masks over the more than 400 years of history are mainly reflected in the types, quantities, materials and craftsmanship. 2) The cultural identity is mainly carried out from three levels: national, local and individual, and finds the main factors affecting the cultural identity of Nuo masks through ethnic policies, laws and regulations, administrative orders, management systems, specific measures and implementation effects. 3) Strengthen the cultural identity, protection inheritance and development of Nuo masks, and propose improvements through measures such as strengthening government functions, improving the education and training system, and improving the cultural identity of society and individuals.

The results of this study found: 1) The historical origins and cultural changes of Maonan and Nuo masks were sorted out. 2) Discovered the current cultural identity status and influencing factors of Nuo masks in the Maonan area. 3) Proposed relevant strategies for the protection, inheritance and development of Maonan Nuo masks. The research results can provide theoretical reference for improving the cultural identity, protection, inheritance and development of Nuo masks in the Maonan area.

To make up for the current lack of theoretical guidance in the protection and inheritance of Maonan Nuo masks. To contribute to the development of Maonan Nuo mask culture, promote the social and cultural development of Maonan areas, enrich the diversity of traditional Chinese culture, promote national unity, and strengthen cultural confidence.

-