John Kealiinohomoku Summary

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1. The article by Joann Kealiinohomoku concerns the topic of dances as they are perceived by scientists. In regards to this, she claims that dance is always a form of ethnological identity of people. The author explains this concept on the example of ballet dance, which is regarded by scientists as the high form of art created by Western tradition. The purpose of proving that ballet is also an ethnic dance revealing our cultural ideas and traditions embodied in the characters is to show that perception of dance as ethnic cannot be represented in form of its lower status. According to Kealiinohomoku, the ballet reflects traditions “our cultural heritage is revealed also in the roles which appear repeatedly in our ballets” (Kealiinohomoku 40). Throughout the article, the author lists themes and characteristics of ballet performances to prove the extent to which ballet has to be regarded as ethnic. Providing support in form of statements about ritualism, flora and fauna that are often included in the performances, the author tries to demonstrate how wrong we are considering ballet to be out of culture. It has inevitable connections to the customs of nations that developed it. Thus, ballet cannot be regarded out of the culturally-historical paradigm, as far as it is deeply rooted in it. While proving that …show more content…

In her article, Kealiinohomoku refers to the ballet as one of examples that prove ethnic origin of dances. She identifies this type of already inter-cultural dance as the one that completely fits in a discussion about ethno-aesthetics. While proving her point of view, she mentions ballet's choreography, body types, sets, and clothes, all of which correspond to the Western perception of beauty and grace. This understanding of beauty involves many nuances, ideals, and resources from specific culture. For instance, ballet involves touching one's thigh, which may be seen inappropriate cultures other than Western. However, this cultural aspect is a norm on th

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