「伝統芸能の継承と現代社会：大気汚染と人種差別との葛藤」の英語長文問題

The preservation of traditional performing arts often faces multifaceted challenges in the modern world. Consider the case of Noh theatre in Japan, a centuries-old art form renowned for its exquisite masks, stylized movements, and haunting melodies. While revered domestically, Noh faces threats both subtle and overt. One significant obstacle is air pollution. The intricate masks used in Noh performances are often made of delicate materials, easily damaged by airborne pollutants. Acid rain, exacerbated by industrial emissions, can erode the paint and wood, necessitating costly and time-consuming restoration work. Moreover, prolonged exposure to pollutants can impact the health of performers, potentially affecting their ability to deliver the demanding physicality required by Noh. This, in turn, affects the sustainability of the art form, impacting younger generations' inclination to pursue it. Another, more insidious challenge is the issue of inclusivity. Historically, Noh performances have been largely dominated by a select few, often excluding individuals from marginalized groups. While efforts towards greater diversity and inclusivity are underway, a legacy of exclusion persists, creating barriers to participation for people from various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. This limited representation affects not only the diversity of performers, but also the range of stories told, perpetuating a narrow perspective within the art form. The interplay between these seemingly disparate issues—environmental degradation and social inequity—highlights the complex reality faced by many traditional arts. Preservation requires more than just funding and technical expertise; it demands a holistic approach addressing the social and environmental contexts in which these arts exist. Failure to address these interwoven challenges risks the erosion not only of cultural heritage but also of the vibrant communities who sustain it.