Original scientific paper

EPIPHANY IN CROATIAN TRADITION

Marko Dragić ; Faculty of Philosophy, University of Split

Abstract

The author interprets religious and secular rites and songs
related to the feast of Epiphany (6th January). Religious rites are:
consecration of water, sprinkling with holy water, consecration of
houses. Secular rites are: masked processions (the star-shaped
and Christmas carollers), and apotropic rites. Secular rites
originate from the ancient polytheistic times.
Performance of rites is a mixture of different forms of popular
creative endeavours from music and dance to theatrical elements
and oral-literary forms.
Oral lyrical religious and secular songs accompany religious
and secular rites. Some are connected with Epiphany and some
are performed on the occasion of other feasts and holidays. The
mentioned rites and songs have its living and esthetical function.
Introductory part contains biblical context. Masked processions
and apotropic rites are interpreted in the Slav and European
context.
The author also gives the authentic field records (2001-2006)
of the students whom he was the mentor in their seminar and
diploma works at the faculties of arts in Split and Mostar.

Keywords

Epiphany; religious rites; masked processions; apotropic rites; Croats; Christians

Hrčak ID:

23174

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/23174

Publication date:

21.3.2007.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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