Rabinal Achi, Danse Drama

　　Proclamation: 2005

Member State(s): Guatemala

Region: Latin America

Associated themes: Performing art; Rituals and festive events

The Rabinal Achí is a dynastic Mayan drama from the 15th century and a rare example of pre-Hispanic traditions. It comprises myths of origin and addresses popular and political subjects concerning the inhabitants of the region of Rabinal, expressed through masked dance, theatre and music.

　　The oral and written narrative is presented by a group of characters, who appear on a stage representing Maya villages, especially Kajyub,' the regional capital of the Rabinaleb' in the 14th century. The narrative, divided into four acts, deals with a conflict between two major political entities in the region, the Rabinaleb' and the K'iche.'

　　The main characters are two princes, the Rabinal Achí and the K'iche Achí. The other characters are the king of Rabinaleb', Job'Toj, and his servant, Achij Mun Achij Mun Ixoq Mun, who has both male and female traits, the green-feathered mother, Uchuch Q'uq' Uchuch Raxon, and 13 eagles and 13 jaguars who represent the warriors of the fortress of Kajyub.' K'iche' Achí is captured and put on trial for having attempted to steal Rabinaleb' children, a grave violation of Maya law.