장흥 고쌈줄당기기의 특징과 가치

Abstract

Jangheung ‘Gossam tug of war’ was transmitted until the end of 1930’s and it came to a halt. After 30 years, in 1970, it was reproduced. Originally, it is a seasonal custom of the day of the first full moon of the lunar year, however, since its reproduction, it is transmitted as a part of Borim Culture Festival taking place on the Day of Province Residence. There is little research on it. This article analyzed the newly acquired materials and compared them with the other cases in order to examine the features and values of Jangheung Gossam tug of war. Comparing it to the cases of other regions, there are distinctive features. Firstly, it is a typical example of town-based festive tradition. In Janghueng, beside Dohobu, there was another government office which was in charge of travelling routes in the southern part of Jeonnam. The fact that two offices belonged to separate higher bodies might have added the competition between them, creating a more dynamic tug of war. Secondly, the magnitude and dynamic of the play are related to the town festive tradition. It is found in the way the sides are determined and how the tug of war on a town level expanded to the larger rope. The robust atmosphere documented in the record of 20th century and the transmission ritual maintained since the reproduction are related to the pride of tradition. Jangheung Gossam tug of war possess the value and meaning as a transmitted cultural heritage. In Gossam tug of war are documented the historical record of the region. Especially, it is said that Gossam tug of war served as a medium through which anti-Japanese sentiment is expressed, distinctive value can be confirmed in a sense that it is connected to the special historical experience at that time. Surviving as a current festival and being interpreted as a symbol which expresses the identity of local community is something to be reckoned with. Its academic value calls for attention. Jangheung Gossam tug of war includes loop fight and tug of war. In Janghueng, two plays are not separate and the two plays are connected consecutively. This contrasts it from Chilsuk loop fight because it is completely independent from tug of war. The academic value of Jangheung Gossam tug of war is significant because it shows differentiation process of loop fight and tug of war.