History Memory,Cultural Exhibition and National Identification——An analysis of the symbolic meaning and function of the Miao Drum Dance in West Hunan Province

Drum dance is especially divine in the minds of the Miao people in West Hunan.Drum dance does not only have functions of celebrations and festivals,ancestor worships,ceremonies,cultural activities and entertainments,but also has symbolic meanings of history memory,cultural exhibition and national identification.However,drum dance, this folk activity with rich connotation has been suddenly and drastically declining in the modern society.It needs strong measure for protection and heritage.