Methodology of Studying the Integration of Narratives and Rituals in Social Spaces: A Case Study of the City Spirit Worship of the Tai in Vietnam
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Abstract
This article presents an integrated methodological approach for analyzing narratives and rituals within social spaces to reveal power from below, utilizing the case study of the city spirit worship performed by Tai people in Quan Son district, in the highland area of Thanh Hoa province, North Central Vietnam, bordering Laos’ Viengxay district in Houaphan province. Through an ethnographic research, an analysis of ancient Tai documents, and Vietnamese sources, the author proposes a seven-step synthesis methodology to elucidate this study approach. Key finding suggests that the integration of narratives and rituals can elucidate sociocultural changes and development driven by power from below, as they are situated within social spaces characterized by power relations. Significantly, the methodology emphasizes the importance of examining narratives and rituals as practices of both the state and ethnic groups, contextualizing these practices at both local and macro levels. Furthermore, by focusing on the interaction between narratives as ritualistic practices, this approach reveals how mainstream state narratives and little narrative of ethnic group interact, leading to the formation of new ethnic identities and place-based consciousness that align with contemporary contexts and societies. This power from below serves as an ethnic strategy for fostering participation in local development.
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