19th Century Romantic and Classical Ballet

These flashcards cover key concepts and important figures from 19th Century Romantic and Classical Ballet, including cultural movements, major ballets, and influential dancers and choreographers.

Romanticism

A cultural movement in the 19th century characterized by an emphasis on emotion and individualism, reflecting society and culture.

Marie Taglioni

A famous romantic ballerina known for her performance in 'La Sylphide' and her association with Filippo Taglioni.

Giselle

A ballet first performed in 1841, choreographed by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot.

Cachucha

A dance influenced by Spanish styles, performed by Fanny Elssler.

Marius Petipa

A prominent ballet choreographer known for creating 'Sleeping Beauty', 'Nutcracker', and 'Swan Lake'.

Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky

A renowned Russian composer who created the scores for classical ballets like 'Swan Lake' and 'Nutcracker'.

Pas de Quatre

A ballet choreographed in 1845 featuring four female dancers.

Industrial Revolution

A period of significant industrial growth in Europe, marked by technological advances and urbanization.

Urbanization

The process of population moving from rural areas to cities, often leading to societal changes.

Filippo Taglioni

The father of Marie Taglioni, known for his influence in the development of Romantic ballet.

french revolution

Overthrow of monarchy, rise of democratic ideals.

Napoleon Bonaparte

Military leader turned emperor; spread French influence across Europe.

industrial revolution

• Steam engine, iron production, textile manufacturing.

• Inventions like the spinning jenny and power loom.

social impact of revolution

• Rapid urbanization → overcrowded cities.

• Pollution and harsh working conditions.

• Rise of middle class and shift in leisure culture.

romanticism themes

• Romanticism: Artistic movement emphasizing emotion, nature, individualism, and the supernatural.

• Themes in Ballet:

  • Love, death, fantasy, ethereal beings (e.g., sylphs, ghosts).

  • Escape from industrial reality into mystical realms.

ballet as a cultural movement

Ballet mirrored Romantic ideals:

• Emphasis on emotion and storytelling.

• Female dancers as symbols of purity and transcendence.

• Shift from courtly dance to theatrical expression.

Marie Taglioni

• Filippo Taglioni: Her father and choreographer.

• Key Works:

  • Robert le Diable (opera): Introduced ballet blanc.

  • La Sylphide (1832): First Romantic ballet; ethereal sylph character.

Giselle

• Choreographers: Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot.

• Themes: Betrayal, love, forgiveness, supernatural.

Fanny Elsler

• Known for fiery, dramatic style.

• Famous for Cachucha: Spanish-inspired solo dance.

Jules Perrot

Co-choreographed Giselle, created Pas de Quatre

Jean Coralli

Co-choreographed Giselle, staged Cachucha

august bournonville

Danish choreographer; preserved Romantic style

19th century dances

• Waltz: Popular social dance; symbolized intimacy and elegance.

• Incorporated into ballet for realism and romantic flair.

elements of romantic ballet

• Ballet Blanc: White costumes symbolizing purity (e.g., La Sylphide).

• Pointe Work: Dancers appeared weightless and otherworldly.

• Supernatural Themes: Ghosts, sylphs, fairies.

• Two-Act Structure:

  • Act I: Realistic setting.

  • Act II: Supernatural or dream-like realm.

• Emphasis on Female Lead: Central figure of emotional and narrative depth.

La Sylphide

1832, 

Filippo Taglioni

First Romantic ballet; sylph motif

Giselle

Jean Coralli, Jules Perrot, Iconic Romantic ballet, 1841

Pas de quatre

Showcase for four leading ballerinas, 1845, Jules perrot

russia as ballet center

• Rise of Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg.

• Patronage by Tsars and aristocracy. Marius peptipa

Peter the great’s influence

• Grand Embassy (1697–1698): Mission to modernize Russia.

• Reforms:

  • Westernization of Russian culture.

  • Foundation for later ballet institutions.