A. Greek Dance: The Fusion of Ritual and Theatre

In Ancient Greece, dance was intertwined with drama, music, and athleticism.

• Dance featured prominently in religious festivals such as the Dionysian celebrations honoring the god Dionysus.
   

• Greek theatre integrated choreographed movements to express emotions and narratives.
   

B. Roman Dance: Entertainment and Spectacle

Romans adopted many Greek traditions but emphasized dance as entertainment.

• Public spectacles, banquets, and theatrical performances included dancers.
   

• However, dance was sometimes viewed with ambivalence, considered less dignified compared to other arts.
   

 Dance in the Middle Ages and Renaissance

A. Medieval Dance: Social and Religious Contexts

During the Middle Ages, dance served both sacred and secular purposes.

• Religious dances like the Carole were simple circle dances performed during festivals.
   

• Folk dances emerged among common people, often tied to agricultural cycles and community gatherings.
   

B. The Renaissance: The Birth of Court Ballet

The Renaissance ushered in a golden age of dance, especially in Europe’s royal courts.

• Italian courts developed ballet de cour, combining dance, music, poetry, and elaborate costumes.
   

• France became the epicenter of ballet under King Louis XIV, who was himself an accomplished dancer.
   

• Ballet evolved into a highly codified art form, with techniques and positions formalized. shutdown123