Research Program on the Contemporary Transmission of Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Category of Oral Tradition: The Example of the Shiba-Ajia Epic of Zhuoni

This study examines contemporary transmission strategies for oral traditions as intangible cultural heritage, using the Shiba-Ajia Epic of Zhuoni as a case study. Drawing on oral-formulaic theory, UNESCO’s heritage safeguarding framework, and the “uses of heritage” perspective, it analyzes the epic’s historical origins, artistic features, and evolving transmission mechanisms. The research identifies its cultural, social, and economic values while addressing challenges such as market-driven simplification, audience shifts, and the preservation of cultural authenticity. In response, it proposes integrated strategies: high-standard digital archiving with open access, multi-level embedding in formal education, sustainable cultural-tourism integration, and active international exchange. The findings emphasize that balancing authenticity and vitality requires community participation, expert oversight, and institutional support. By fostering collaboration among cultural bearers, policymakers, and the public, the sustainable development of oral traditions like Sheba-Ajia can be achieved, offering transferable insights for safeguarding other forms of intangible cultural heritage.

卓尼《史巴阿迦》史诗是口头传统类非物质文化遗产的重要代表。本文基于文献与田野材料，梳理其表演形态与传承机制，指出当代面临传承人老龄化、表演空间收缩、受众变化及市场化改编带来的真实性风险等问题。为实现活态保护，提出推进数字化采录建档与共享传播，推动教育与公共文化服务嵌入，强化社区参与的可持续文旅转化，并完善政策支持与交流协同，以提升史诗的持续传承能力。