"jump Zhong Kui" Origins Research

This dissertation observes Tiao Zhong Kui, or Zhong Kui Dance from a point of view within the complex cultural structure. For folklore, traditional custom, and religious beliefs display various phases in which we may distinguish the uniqueness of the folk dance. The research is based on historical studies and investigation.In its earliest stage, before Tiao Zhong Kui came into being, the dance had long been a ritual that is bound to send away the spirit so that the living can proceed with physical and mental health. Tiao Zhong Kui shares the same religious source as that of the ritual several millenniums ago. Therefore, the original function of exorcising has long been preserved through thousands of years' practice in the vast rural as well as urban areas of China at seasonal occasions such as the Chinese New Year, the mid-7th lunar month, etc. Zhong Kui has even become a deity and a legendary figure since the 7th century. While the ritual is held in the last lunar month, the folk dance is performed both during the Spring Festival and on the 15th of the 7* lunar month. Due to its unique significance in driving away and eliminating ghosts, the folk dance and the character of Zhong Kui has spread its influence and popularity throughout the country. In the period of the Song dynasty (A.D.960-1279), the folk dance was so well received by the common mass that it finally joined the evolution of traditional drama. The integration of Tiao Zhong Kui into traditional Chinese opera contains two modes: the original and the refined. The latter is found on the present stage. The divine image of Zhong Kui is displayed artistically in theatre as it is symbolically in folk dance. Movements and postures give full play to its power and character as well.In brief, the origin of the folk dance Tiao Zhong Kui lies in the ancient ritual. The common faith of ancient Chinese and their descendants in ghosts, karma, evil and virtue help prolong and extend the handing down of the intangible heritage though in its different stage of history the dance demonstrates diverse cultural property which is respectively religious ceremony, function-oriented folk custom, and aesthetically perfected performing art.