The Study of Ecological Consciousness in the Folk Songs of the Chahar Mongols

Abstract

The folk songs of the Chahar Mongols not only embody a rich historical heritage and ethnic characteristics but also reflect the close interaction between humans and the natural environment. The lyrics of Chahar folk songs are meticulously structured and vividly expressive, often employing metaphor and allegory with a strong lyrical quality. They frequently use imagery of the sun and moon, wind and rain, clouds and mountains, flowers and plants, domestic animals, and wild animals, demonstrating profound ecological awareness and humanistic concern. This paper studies representative works of Chahar Mongolian folk songs such as "Cool Hangai Mountain," "Little Yellow Horse," and "Four Seasons" from an ecological consciousness perspective. It delves into their diverse ecological discourse construction and their significant role in the cultural construction of northern China.