Member-only story

Modern Ballet and the Cultural Politics of France, 1909-1958: An Exploration of Dance and Nationhood

Edison Mitchell

·4.2k Followers· Follow

Published in When Ballet Became French: Modern Ballet And The Cultural Politics Of France 1909 1958

4 min read · 1 week before

658 View Claps

40 Respond

Save

Listen

When Ballet Became French: Modern Ballet and the Cultural Politics of France, 1909-1958

by Sylvia Kristel

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2771 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	405 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Modern Ballet And The Cultural Politics Of France, 1909 1958 Book Cover When Ballet Became French: Modern Ballet And The Cultural Politics Of France 1909 1958

Synopsis

In the vibrant cultural landscape of early 20th century France, modern ballet emerged as a captivating art form that challenged traditional notions of dance and embodied the political and social transformations of the era. This meticulously researched book, "Modern Ballet and the Cultural Politics of France, 1909-1958," provides a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between modern ballet and the cultural politics of France, offering a fresh perspective on the relationship between dance, nationhood, and modernity.

The book spans a crucial period in French history, from the early experiments of the Ballets Russes in Paris to the groundbreaking work of choreographers such as Serge Lifar, Roland Petit, and Maurice Béjart. It delves into the artistic, social, and political forces that shaped modern ballet and traces its evolution as a reflection of the changing cultural identity of France.

Key Themes

Modernism and Ballet: The book examines how modern ballet challenged traditional ballet aesthetics, incorporating elements of abstraction, expressionism, and surrealism to reflect the artistic currents of the time.
National Identity and Dance: It investigates the ways in which modern ballet became a vehicle for expressing French national identity, embodying both the pride and the anxieties of a nation navigating the challenges of modernity.
Choreographers and Politics: The book profiles prominent choreographers such as Serge Lifar and Roland Petit, highlighting their artistic visions and their engagement with the political and social issues of their time.
Dance and Diplomacy: It explores the role of modern ballet in French cultural diplomacy, showcasing how it was used to promote French culture abroad and foster international relations.

Original Research and Analysis

The book draws upon extensive archival research, including unpublished letters, diaries, and performance reviews. It presents original analysis and insights into the connections between modern ballet and the political, social, and cultural context of France. The author provides a nuanced understanding of how ballet both reflected and influenced the nation's cultural identity in the interwar and postwar periods.

Accessible and Engaging

Written in a clear and engaging style, the book is accessible to both scholars and general readers. It provides a comprehensive overview of modern ballet in France, making it a valuable resource for students, researchers, and ballet enthusiasts alike. The book is richly illustrated with historical photographs, performance stills, and archival documents, bringing the world of modern ballet vividly to life.

Cultural Significance

"Modern Ballet and the Cultural Politics of France, 1909-1958" is a timely and significant contribution to the study of dance history, cultural studies, and French history. It illuminates the complex relationship between art and nationhood, and sheds light on the ways in which modern ballet shaped the cultural identity of France in the 20th century.

Call to Action

If you are fascinated by the intersection of dance, politics, and cultural history, then "Modern Ballet and the Cultural Politics of France, 1909-1958" is a must-read. Free Download your copy today and delve into the captivating world of modern ballet in France!

When Ballet Became French: Modern Ballet and the Cultural Politics of France, 1909-1958

by Sylvia Kristel

4.5 out of 5