摘要：The epic, which is performed through storytelling, song and recitation, is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Tibeta

Editor's note: The Gesar epic tradition was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009. This recognition honors the Gesar epic as one of the world's oldest and most important oral traditions.

The epic, which is performed through storytelling, song and recitation, is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Tibetan, Mongolian, Tu, Yugu and other ethnic groups in China. It is a narrative that tells the heroic tale of King Gesar, a divine warrior and ruler who defends his people, fights against evil forces, and brings justice and prosperity to his kingdom.

The epic is significant not only for its literary and artistic merit but also for its social function as a way to preserve cultural values, history and identity. Its performance often involves both professional and amateur performers, who engage in the oral tradition of storytelling, sometimes accompanied by music and dance, providing a dynamic experience for audiences. The epic's deep roots in various cultures make it a key symbol of shared heritage across the region.

The Gesar epic is believed to have originated in ancient Tibetan oral traditions, with some estimates suggesting its origins as far back as the 10th century. The story of King Gesar was initially passed down orally by bards and storytellers, evolving over time as it spread across different regions and cultures. Over the centuries, the epic has undergone numerous adaptations, with various versions in different languages, including Tibetan, Mongolian and Chinese.

The earliest written records of the Gesar epic began to appear in the 11th century, with manuscripts preserved in Tibetan monasteries. The oral tradition, however, remained the dominant mode of transmission for much of its history. In these performances, the narrative is typically sung or chanted by a "Gesar bard" or "epic singer," who often improvises parts of the story, tailoring it to the particular audience or occasion. The epic was passed down through generations, not only as a form of entertainment but also as a source of moral instruction and cultural pride.

King Gesar, as portrayed in the epic, is depicted as a supernatural hero with divine powers. He battles against malevolent forces and brings peace and justice to his people. The story is filled with symbolism and allegory, reflecting themes of good versus evil, the struggle for justice, and the importance of wisdom and courage. The epic's cultural significance grew as it spread to different ethnic communities, each of which contributed its own variations and perspectives on the narrative.

Today, the Gesar epic remains an important cultural treasure, though it faces challenges in the modern world. The rise of digital media, urbanization and the decline of oral traditions have all affected the transmission of the epic. However, the epic is still performed in many regions, particularly in Tibetan and Mongolian communities, and there have been efforts to revitalize and preserve the tradition.

Many local communities continue to celebrate the Gesar epic during festivals, religious ceremonies and other social gatherings. Professional epic singers, some of whom are well-known figures, continue to perform the epic at public events and festivals, drawing large audiences.

Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to document the various versions of the epic, ensuring that its linguistic and cultural diversity is preserved. Some academic institutions and cultural organizations have worked to promote the study and performance of the epic, providing training for new generations of epic performers. Initiatives to include the epic in educational curricula and to integrate it into cultural tourism have also helped raise awareness and foster greater appreciation for this heritage.

UNESCO's recognition of the Gesar epic tradition acknowledges its status as a masterpiece of oral literature. The epic, according to UNESCO, is a vital part of the region's cultural identity, fostering social cohesion, moral values and a sense of belonging among the communities that perform it.

UNESCO has praised the epic for its multifaceted role in preserving history, culture and language, saying the epic is not only an art form but also an essential means of transmitting traditional knowledge and wisdom across generations.

In its recognition, UNESCO also emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to preserve the tradition in the face of modernization. The inclusion of the Gesar epic on the Representative List is intended to ensure its preservation through documentation, promotion and the encouragement of new performances. It is hoped that such efforts will help ensure the continuity of this important cultural heritage and its transmission to future generations.

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来源：中国网