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Ideologies of the Baroque Body: A Historical and Cultural Examination in Oxford Studies in Dance Theory

Terence Nelson

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The Baroque Body In Motion Dance As Text: Ideologies Of The Baroque Body (Oxford Studies In Dance Theory)

The Baroque period, spanning the 17th and 18th centuries, witnessed a profound transformation in artistic expression and social norms. The human body became a central focus of artistic inquiry, resulting in a wealth of literature on dance, fashion, and social customs.

The recently published Ideologies Of The Baroque Body, part of the Oxford Studies in Dance Theory series, provides a comprehensive exploration of this fascinating era. The book brings together leading scholars from various disciplines, offering a multi-faceted analysis of the ideologies that shaped the Baroque body.

Dance as Text: Ideologies of the Baroque Body (Oxford Studies in Dance Theory)

by Mark Franko

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5231 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	271 pages
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The Body as a Site of Cultural Inscription

One of the central themes of Ideologies Of The Baroque Body is the concept of the body as a site of cultural inscription. During this period, the body was seen as a microcosm of the universe, reflecting the social and political hierarchies of the time. Dance, in particular, became a powerful medium for expressing these ideologies.

The book examines how Baroque dance was used to convey messages of power, authority, and social status. The elaborate costumes and intricate movements of court dances, for example, served to reinforce the social Free Download and demonstrate the superiority of the ruling elite.

Fashion and the Construction of the Baroque Body

Fashion also played a significant role in shaping the ideologies of the Baroque body. The book explores how clothing and accessories were used to construct and define different social identities. Extravagant and opulent garments, such as elaborate wigs and wide-brimmed hats, became symbols of wealth and status.

The book also examines the role of fashion in shaping gender roles. Women's fashion, in particular, was heavily influenced by the prevailing social norms, which emphasized modesty and chastity. However, certain elements of Baroque fashion, such as low-cut necklines and revealing bodices, also hinted at a more playful and sensual side of the era.

Social Customs and the Regulation of the Baroque Body

Beyond the realms of dance and fashion, the book also delves into the social customs and practices that governed the Baroque body. These customs included strict rules about posture, movement, and public behavior.

The book explores how these customs reinforced the social hierarchy and maintained social Free Download. For example, proper etiquette demanded that individuals of lower social status bow or curtsy to their superiors, maintaining a clear distinction between social classes.

The Legacy of the Baroque Body

The ideologies that shaped the Baroque body continue to resonate in contemporary society. The book argues that our understanding of the body and its place in society has been profoundly influenced by the ideas of this era.

The legacy of the Baroque body can be seen in contemporary dance, fashion, and social norms. For instance, the emphasis on physical perfection in modern dance can be traced back to the Baroque period's fascination with the ideal body.

Ideologies Of The Baroque Body is an essential read for anyone interested in the history of dance, fashion, and social customs. The book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of this fascinating era, offering new insights into the ways in which the body has been shaped and regulated throughout history.

Through its exploration of the ideologies that shaped the Baroque body, the book invites readers to reflect on the complex relationship between the body, culture, and society. It is a valuable contribution to the field of dance theory and a must-have for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Baroque period and its lasting impact on our understanding of the body.

Dance as Text: Ideologies of the Baroque Body (Oxford Studies in Dance Theory)

by Mark Franko

5 out of 5