Short History of Dance - Medieval times

Summary

The video provides an insightful exploration of dance throughout the Medieval Age, covering various continents and cultures. It highlights how dance evolved in response to major social, religious, and political changes. From the vibrant African dances like the Maasai Adumu to the cultural richness of Indian and Khmer classical dance forms, the script delves into the dance traditions of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. It also touches on how European political upheavals and religious shifts impacted dance culture, including the rise of 'Dance Mania' and the Danse Macabre. The history of dance is shown as a reflection of the diverse and complex cultures across the world.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Medieval Age was a period of significant social, religious, and cultural changes that influenced the development of dance around the world.
• 😀 In Africa, dance played an essential role in culture, with various vibrant forms like the Maasai Adumu dance and the Swati Siphaka dance, reflecting their rich traditions and societies.
• 😀 African dance was significantly diminished due to the introduction of Islam in the north and the impact of Western European colonization and the transatlantic slave trade.
• 😀 In West Asia, the growth of Islam led to a decline in public dance, though some more liberal Muslim groups like the Sufi dervishes continued their dance practices, including the spinning rituals.
• 😀 The Mongol Empire, which spanned across many regions, fostered a thriving cultural environment for dance, with traditional forms like the Central Asian Biyelgee and Korean Gangang Sori.
• 😀 South Asia was divided by Indian and Khmer empires, each nurturing distinct dance forms such as the Odissi in India and the Apsara dance in Cambodia, reflecting their religious and cultural beliefs.
• 😀 The indigenous cultures of Australia and Oceania used dance for rituals and ceremonies, with examples like the secretive kangaroo dance performed by hunters in Australia.
• 😀 In North America, indigenous dances were deeply rooted in rituals and traditions, with examples like the pow-wow solo dance and the Aztec-influenced Concheros dance, which became a blend of pre-colonial and Christian traditions.
• 😀 In South America, the indigenous civilizations like the Inca and Norte Chico had rich dance traditions, with the Diablada folk dance from Bolivia representing mythical stories.
• 😀 In Europe, medieval dance developed along two lines: folk dances for the common people and court dances for the elites. Examples include the lively Polish Oberek dance and the mysterious Dance Mania, a social phenomenon linked to frustration and despair.

Q & A

How did social and political changes in the Medieval Age influence dance culture?

Social and political changes during the Medieval Age played a significant role in the development of dance cultures worldwide. For example, the rise of new religions such as Islam in the Middle East, colonialism in Africa and the Americas, and the formation of empires like the Mongol Empire all impacted the forms and functions of dance, either promoting or suppressing it.

What role did the Islamic Caliphates play in the development of dance in West Asia?

The Islamic Caliphates supported the arts and education, but many conservative Muslim groups interpreted the Quran as prohibiting public dance. As a result, the growth of dance in the region was stifled, with some dance forms, such as the Sufi dervish whirling dance, surviving due to their spiritual and mystical nature.

How did the Mongol Empire's political system impact dance in Central and East Asia?

The Mongol Empire's political system, which allowed conquered regions to retain their own cultures and religions, fostered the growth of dance in Central and East Asia. Dance forms like biyelgee in Mongolia and gangang sul in Korea flourished due to the freedom of cultural expression and economic prosperity under Mongol rule.

What is the significance of the 'Adumu' dance performed by the Maasai people?

The 'Adumu' dance, performed by the Maasai people of Kenya and Tanzania, is a traditional jumping dance that highlights the Maasai's pride in their athletic ability. The dance, accompanied by singing and rhythmic chants, is a symbol of strength and endurance, with some dancers being able to jump as high as 8 feet.

What were the major impacts of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade on African dance culture?

The Trans-Atlantic slave trade caused significant damage to African dance culture by forcibly removing many Africans from their homeland and introducing oppressive systems that sought to suppress indigenous practices. The cultural disruption led to the decline of traditional African dances, though many have been revived in modern times.

What was the 'Danse Macabre' and its significance in Medieval European dance?

The 'Danse Macabre' was a metaphorical dance form in Europe that symbolized death's inevitable presence in society. It depicted death dancing with people from all walks of life, including kings, nobles, and beggars. This dance served as a protest against social inequality and reminded people that death is the great equalizer.

How did the Khmer Empire influence dance in Southeast Asia?

The Khmer Empire, which ruled over a vast area of Southeast Asia, was known for its rich cultural practices, including dance. The Apsara dance, performed by female dancers in temples, was believed to represent divine spirits. The dance emphasized slow movements, intricate hand gestures, and had symbolic meanings linked to protection and spirituality.

What role did dance play in the cultures of South American civilizations like the Inca and Aztec?

In South America, dance played a central role in religious and cultural rituals, especially in civilizations like the Inca and Aztec. Dances were often connected to spiritual beliefs, rituals, and celebrations. The 'Diablada,' for example, is an Andean folk dance that represents indigenous mythology, often performed with colorful masks and costumes.

Why did dance practices in Australia and Oceania become secretive during the Medieval period?

In Australia and Oceania, dance was considered a sacred and powerful practice, often linked to magical beliefs and rituals. Due to the secretive nature of these dances, they were performed in secluded spaces. The secrecy arose from a belief that the dances had supernatural powers, and revealing them could weaken their effectiveness.

What was 'Dance Mania,' and what impact did it have in Medieval Europe?

Dance Mania was a phenomenon in Medieval Europe where people experienced uncontrollable, frenzied dancing. In some instances, whole communities would partake in this erratic behavior, which sometimes led to physical harm or even death. This phenomenon is believed to have been triggered by societal stresses such as the Black Plague and political instability.