Hula

Definition

Hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance characterized by hip movements, gestures, and storytelling through motion, often accompanied by music and chant. This dance form serves as a vital cultural expression, reflecting the history, mythology, and values of Hawaiian society while fostering community connection and identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hula is not just a dance; it serves as a means of preserving and passing down Hawaiian traditions, language, and stories.
2. The practice of hula was nearly lost due to missionary influence in the 19th century, but it experienced a resurgence in the 20th century as part of a cultural revival.
3. Hula performances are often showcased at luaus, festivals, and competitions, where dancers exhibit their skills and cultural pride.
4. The two main styles of hula, Kahiko and Auana, each have unique characteristics that reflect different aspects of Hawaiian culture and history.
5. Hula is deeply intertwined with the spiritual beliefs of Hawaiians, often honoring gods, ancestors, and the natural world through its movements and songs.

Review Questions

• How does hula function as a means of storytelling in Hawaiian culture?
  • Hula serves as a vibrant storytelling medium by using movement, gestures, and facial expressions to convey narratives related to history, mythology, and everyday life. Each dance tells a specific story or represents significant events in Hawaiian culture. Through its choreography and accompanying chants or songs, hula communicates these narratives in a way that engages both the dancer and the audience, making cultural history accessible and memorable.
• Compare and contrast the Kahiko and Auana styles of hula in terms of their historical significance and performance characteristics.
  • Kahiko is an ancient style of hula that emphasizes traditional instruments, chants, and costumes that reflect Hawaii's rich history. It often focuses on themes related to spirituality and ancestry. In contrast, Auana is more modern and incorporates contemporary music styles and costumes, allowing for greater creative expression. While Kahiko connects deeply with the past, Auana reflects current trends and themes, showcasing how hula evolves while maintaining its cultural significance.
• Evaluate the impact of colonial influences on the practice of hula and its subsequent revival in Hawaiian culture.
  • Colonial influences significantly affected the practice of hula in the 19th century when missionaries sought to suppress native traditions, viewing them as pagan. This led to a decline in hula performances. However, during the 20th century, there was a strong cultural revival that sought to reclaim traditional practices. The revitalization of hula has not only restored this important aspect of Hawaiian culture but also fostered a sense of pride and identity among Hawaiians today. This dynamic reflects the resilience of indigenous cultures in the face of external pressures.

Related terms

ʻoli: A form of Hawaiian chant that accompanies hula performances, often conveying spiritual or historical narratives.

Kahiko: An ancient style of hula performed with traditional instruments and costumes, focusing on the historical aspects of Hawaiian culture.

Auana: A modern style of hula that incorporates contemporary music and dance elements, often reflecting more current themes and stories.