ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the significance of a set of Han Chinese ritual dramas known as “Repaying a Nuo Vow” (Huan Nuoyuan 還儺願). I examine the cultural significance of Repaying a Nuo Vow from three perspectives: (1) Historical and ethnographic data other scholars have collected throughout Western Hunan, including among both Miao and Tujia communities; (2) A case study of one such rite held in Huayuan 花垣 County in November 2011; (3) Information on such rituals as performed in other parts of Southwest China.
