The Jánošík Tradition

The Jánošík tradition is inherently linked to a particular cultural space – the Municipality of Terchová as the birthplace of Juraj Jánošík, the symbol of this wide-scale tradition. The robber tradition, of which the Jánošík tradition forms a specific part, has moved in the collective historic memory in Slovakia along the line starting with its heroising image and ending with a humorous and ironising one. Specifically, the Jánošík tradition is associated with the name of Juraj Jánošík (1688 – 1713), a real historical figure and robbers’ captain, considered by many as one of the important personalities of Slovakia. Besides the inhabitants of Terchová and its surroundings, many other communities, groups, or individuals from all over Slovakia, as well as part of the Slovak communities living abroad also regard this element as an inherent part of their cultural heritage. It is therefore right to speak about a nationwide tradition. The Jánošík tradition is a set of expressions of the oral tradition, linguistic traditions, folklore, folk music, singing, dancing, culture, art, culinary and craft production, professional broadspectrum fine arts, literature, theatre, classical, folk, musical, rock and other music, ballet, as well as other creative genres that bring together the legacy, inspirations, and motifs associated with Jánošík’s legend. Its continuity over time and the constant revitalisation of the tradition are therefore ensured by a wide range of bearers – individuals and institutions alike – from amateur fans and performers within the folklorist circles to professional artists of different genres, as well as researchers – historians, art scholars and experts in folklorism, or media professionals, through events such as folklore festivals and various other cultural or gastronomic events linked to tourism.