Echoes of Folk Culture: an Ethnographic Analysis of Local Narratives in Zhanjiang Communities

Abstract

This study explores the revival of folk culture in Zhanjiang communities in Guangdong Province, China, through the lens of local narratives. It examines how local narratives, deeply woven into community practices, traditional rituals, dialects, arts and moral values, can shape cultural identity and foster community cohesion. Adopting an ethnographic approach, collecting data from participatory observation, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis, the research highlights the innovative use of local narratives in community-based legal education, ritual practices, art-inspired activities and a tourism heritage site. The findings suggest that local narratives not only preserve cultural heritage but also empower communities by enhancing social bonds and encouraging greater participation in cultural revival efforts. The study also reveals the role of local norms and customs in making these narratives resonate more deeply with the community members, thereby taming complexity in the constantly-changing society. The research contributes to the understanding of local narratives as a dynamic process, which helps adapt and re-interpret traditions to address contemporary needs while maintaining a connection to the past. By focusing on the specific case of Zhanjiang, this study offers insights into the broader implications of cultural revival in other regions facing similar challenges of globalization and modernization.