Purposes of Dance – Comprehensive Study Notes

A comprehensive set of practice flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 1: Purposes of Dance notes, including ritual, social, political, and ceremonial aspects, as well as examples from various cultures.

What is the ritual function of dance?

A prescribed set of procedures or actions performed formally in observance of a religious or ceremonial context, designed to please or bless the gods or spirits; a central element of religion.

What role does the circle play in ritual dance?

The circle provides unity and serves as a focal point around the ritual.

What decor elements are commonly used in ritual dances?

Paint, feathers, colored stones, and masks.

What is the purpose of fertility rituals?

To promote the abundance of food and life.

What is Kagura?

A Japanese Shinto dance ritual performed to invite the gods for blessing.

What are rain dances?

Dances performed to invoke rains to help crops grow.

What is a hunting ritual?

Rituals performed to call upon animal spirits for protection, prepare for the hunt, and gain power to ensure a successful kill.

Who are the Matis and what do they do?

An Indigenous group in Brazil whose ritual includes body paint, chanting, and line movement to attract forest pigs for hunting.

What cultures perform deer dances and what is their purpose?

The Yaqui and Mayo people of Sonora, Mexico; deer dance rituals include rites marking life stages and ceremonies related to marriage and fertility.

What are birth rituals?

Rituals conducted before and after birth to ease labor and ensure the health of the child and mother, and to celebrate birth.

What are funeral rituals?

Rituals aimed at bringing peace to both the living and the dead.

How have some cultures shifted their dance rituals in modern times?

From ceremonial performances to public exhibitions and performances for archiving, education, or entertainment.

What is political dance?

Dance used as an instrument to display power and status among ruling classes.

What are court dances?

Ceremonial court spectacles designed to demonstrate hierarchy and regal authority; often lavish and lengthy.

How did modernization affect court dances?

They were condensed and are performed by professional troupes for public viewing, becoming classical dances within a culture.

How did Louis XIV influence dance?

He performed the Apollo dance in his youth, earning the nickname Sun King, which helped blur lines between social and theatrical performances.

In court dances, who may participate?

Often only nobles or leaders perform, though some societies permit any member to join or be assigned.

How does Asante culture relate dancing to leadership?

Dancing ability was a qualifying factor in electing the Asantehene (king), and dance displaying power reinforced imperial authority.

What overarching elements are common to ritual dances across cultures?

Sacred purpose, circle arrangements, and symbols such as body paint, masks, and chants.

What is the broader significance of ritual dances in early humankind?

They connected humans with the spirit world and influenced daily life through ritual actions and offerings.