Western classical dance is a type of dance that emerged in the 16th century in the courts of Italy during the Renaissance. Called classical ballet, this artistic manifestation improved in England, Russia and France, where it became popular.
This is a type of dance that values elegant, rigorous movements and technique performed with precision and discipline.
Origin of classical dance
Classical dance, or ballet, appears among European royalty. The name ballet originates in Italy, being a diminutive for the word dance. It later became known as ballet in France.
An important point in the history of classical dance was the union of the Italian princess Marie de' Medici with the French king Henry IV in 1600. Marie de Medici was responsible for bringing to France the classical dance that was emerging in Italy.
Thus, from then on, dance became an object of study and practice at the French court.
Features of classical dance
Classical dance is characterized by its graceful movements and particularities such as:
- upright posture
- balance on toes achieved with pointe shoes
- body control
- specific arm and leg positions
- narrative and dramatic elements
Types of classical dance
Classical dance is generally associated with classical ballet, which consists of 3 main types: Russian, French and Italian ballet.
In Russian classical ballet there is a predominance of acrobatic movements and expressiveness. O French classical ballet he was the one who best developed the techniques, with essential names such as Jean-Baptiste Lully and Pierre Beauchamp. Already the Italian classical ballet It is important for being the precursor of European classical dance.
There are also other types of classical dance that developed in other parts of the world, and which are not related to ballet. This is the case of indian classical dance, also called Odissi; classical Chinese dance; Balinese, Persian, among others.
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AIDAR, Laura. Classical dance: find out what it is, where it originated, characteristics and types.All Matter, [n.d.]. Available in: https://www.todamateria.com.br/danca-classica-origem-o-que-e-caracteristicas-e-tipos/. Access at:
See too
- Cubism
- History of Dance in Brazil
- General Knowledge Questions and Answers
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- Legends and Characters of Brazilian Folklore
- Fencing
- Dance History
- History Questions on Enem
