Elements of Noh

To better appreciate the intermedia dimensions of Noh, it is helpful to know about its structure, and the expressive possibilities of its individual elements. In addition to the relevant chapters developed for this website, which are mainly focused on elements found in the two analyzed plays, the reader can refer to the affiliated website 'Nōgaku' at the Japanese Performing Arts Research Consortium (JPARC) where more information in a wider context is provided.

Form Summarizes the classical formal design and explains its modular (shōdan) construction. Actors Lists the categories of actors and their roles in Noh. Music Includes information about vocal styles, instrumental sounds, rhythmic organization and a catalog of nohkan patterns. Movement Introduces principle dance forms, and analyzes shimai dances from Hashitomi and Kokaji. Text Introduces categories of text and presents libretti of Hashitomi and Kokaji in Romaji transliteration and English translation. Staging Discusses the use of the Noh stage, masks, costumes and properties.