Exploration of the Formation Path of Yuan Dynasty Zaju Music and Script System

Abstract

As the first peak in the development of Chinese drama, Yuan Dynasty Zaju was influenced by various factors in its formation. The external structure of Yuan Dynasty Zaju includes the music system and the script system, both of which exhibit different inheritances of “existing forms.” The music system was selected based on musical forms such as daqu, changzhuan, and various palace tunes, while the script system evolved through continuous practical exploration based on the trial-and-error experiences of drama performance. In pursuit of artistic continuity, this study explores the formation path of Yuan Dynasty Zaju, tracing its origins and connecting the artistic forms that preceded and followed the development of drama.