Summary Of Alvin Ailey's Revelations?

analytical Essay

1189 words

Revelations is a contemporary style dance that tells the story of African-American faith and tenacity from slavery to freedom through a suite of dances set to spirituals and blues music.This choreographic work was first performed in New York City on January 31,1960 at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and later recognized to be a signature piece for the theater. Alvin Ailey is the original choreographer of the masterpiece titled “Revelations” and also the founder of the dance theater where the piece Revelations is mainly showcased, Ailey was an African-American born January 5,1931 in Rogers, TX , only 29 when he decided to develop this dance piece. There was a time where opportunities for male dancers like himself was severely limited, so that 's when he decided to establish his work, this dance performance was Ailey 's idea for African Americans to express their talents,cultural history, and experience and was also encouraged by his memories of living in the south and his understanding of human development. …show more content…

This wonderful piece displays the time period in which slavery was taken place , reconstruction, baptism , going to church , and brushes up on the idea of how African American humans developed from the time when they were being devalued and treated like "nothing more than animals." Revelations is a very popular piece, reason being that the choreography is so magnificent at telling it 's story it comes off as an inspiration for the viewers. At the start of this piece it was originally ten sections, but later on sections was constantly removed as the work progressed over time. Revelations are now divided into three sections "Pilgrim of Sorrow," "Take Me to the Water" and "Move,Members,Move" which are all unique in their own

In this essay, the author

Explains that revelations is a contemporary style dance that tells the story of african-american faith and tenacity from slavery to freedom through dances set to spirituals and blues music.
Analyzes how ailey's style of dancing focuses more on the african american theme so the audience can take away a detailed visual of the hardships that african americans had to face.
Analyzes how ailey's "pilgrim of sorrow" is about slavery and becoming free. it shows poverty,darkness, and hopelessness.

Explains that revelations is a contemporary style dance that tells the story of african-american faith and tenacity from slavery to freedom through dances set to spirituals and blues music.
Analyzes how ailey's style of dancing focuses more on the african american theme so the audience can take away a detailed visual of the hardships that african americans had to face.
Analyzes how ailey's "pilgrim of sorrow" is about slavery and becoming free. it shows poverty,darkness, and hopelessness.
Explains that the second part of this section, which starts with three dancers dressed in the same costume, is more joyful and exciting. in the third part, with a male and women, the music changes from upbeat to worshiping.
Analyzes how "take me to the water" depicts the scheme of baptism and how the slaves are being saved by being set free from their slave masters.
Analyzes how the last section of the performance is the part where the african american slaves are set completely free.
Analyzes how alvin ailey's breathtaking piece "revelations" shows the entirety of the "african american experience" and uses traditional african american blues, work songs, and spirituals as his musical inspiration.

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The Autobiography Of Malcolm X, By Alex Haley
analytical essay
The text begins with the woman who had raised him being pregnant, and instantly the sense of violence is introduced, the dangers of the Ku Klux Klan lurk within the beginning of the text and the description of fear is already being portrayed. "Nightmare” is appropriately titled the very first chapter. When this chapter is expressed not only does the reader already acknowledge struggle but there is also a brief background of his father. His father who was preaching the right that all African Americans had to go back to where he felt they belonged, he preached of the wrong that the “white man” oppresses amongst them and the cruelty they receive. An example of what may be racial identity, an example of how the color of ones skin was so effecting that his father felt the need to leave everything behind and truly felt that leaving was the
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how the autobiography of malcolm x, written by alex haley, contains the story of one of the most influential and memorable activists in our history.
- Analyzes how "nightmare" begins with brutal and core events in the reader's life that he will never forget from the past.
- Analyzes how malcolm x's character develops within the standards african americans feel they have to live up to in order to be ‘successful’.
- Analyzes how the autobiography of malcolm x, written by alex haley, contains the story of one of the most influential and memorable activists in our history.
- Analyzes how "nightmare" begins with brutal and core events in the reader's life that he will never forget from the past.
- Analyzes how malcolm x's character develops within the standards african americans feel they have to live up to in order to be ‘successful’.
- Analyzes how malcolm's racial interactions are also developments of his story. growing up as an african american back then was not easy.
- Analyzes how malcolm develops understanding towards the central ideas of racial identity and integration versus separation build upon one another.
- Analyzes how malcolm gets arrested through no fault of his own and is forced to find himself through the help of one of inmates that easily became a good friend.
- Analyzes malcolm's journey to mecca, where he learns that everyone is equal and has one purpose: to praise the holy allah.
1356 words
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Analysis Of Alvin Ailey
analytical essay
In Ailey’s own account, he moved to California a shy, lonely child and found comfort in the alter-realities of the theater, dance and movies. It was during this time that he came to identity as a homosexual. Horton, an openly gay white man, pioneered a school and company of gay, lesbian and straight dancers from ethnic backgrounds who executed innovated choreography at concerts. Through Horton’s mentoring and his accepting Dance Company, Ailey reacted to this sexual and racial liberation in a manner that helped develop his creative talent into a weighted and sensual style that worked with his athletic body (43). Though Ailey remained closeted through life, he preformed numerous interviews throughout his career and, but remained private about his personal affairs. He often described himself as a bachelor and a loner in interviews and maintained that he did feel the needed to sustain a long-term relationship (44). Ailey’s struggle with accepting his own sexuality could be seen as a limitation to his creative expression; however, his resilience to this obstacle created by society can be easily seen in his work. His technique is known for physically and emotionally moving both the dancer and the audience. It is clear that though he may have kept his personal life to himself, his passion and intensity exploded on the stage through his
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how horton supported alvin in his struggle with another hardship. he pioneered a school and company of gay, lesbian and straight dancers from ethnic backgrounds who executed innovative choreography at concerts.
- Explains that the alvin ailey american dance theater was founded in 1958 as a black-only company. his multiracial troupe was revolutionary to african-american dance in the 20th century.
- Explains how ailey drew on his life experiences and oppression to create passionate, emotional and moving pieces, both for the dancers and the audience.
- Analyzes how horton supported alvin in his struggle with another hardship. he pioneered a school and company of gay, lesbian and straight dancers from ethnic backgrounds who executed innovative choreography at concerts.
- Explains that the alvin ailey american dance theater was founded in 1958 as a black-only company. his multiracial troupe was revolutionary to african-american dance in the 20th century.
- Explains how ailey drew on his life experiences and oppression to create passionate, emotional and moving pieces, both for the dancers and the audience.
- Explains that resilience is a trait displayed by everyone to various degrees and requires time, effort, and personal improvement to further develop one's skill set.
- Explains that alvin ailey american dance theater celebrated its 50th anniversary on april 7th, 2008. he revolutionized the style and techniques of modern dance and revived its popularity.
- Analyzes how alvin ailey, the first african-american to create a multicultural, international concert dance company, addressed racism and injustice faced by ethnic minorities across the globe.
- Describes how ailey began studying at horton's studio in 1951 and joined the company in 1953. he studied painting, acting, music, set design, costuming, and choreography.
- Analyzes how ailey's revolutionary dance technique pushed dancers to maintain the long, unbroken leg lines of ballet, while preforming dramatic expressive movements of the upper torso of modern dance.
- Explains that alvin ailey american dance theater brought its philosophies of cultural acceptance and equality to the further reaches of the global when it became the first black dance company to be sent aboard by the kennedy administration’s international exchange program.
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Dance
analytical essay
Alvin Ailey, a dancer born in 1931, founded what is known today as the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Born in Texas, Ailey faced intense racism and discrimination growing up. As a result he strove to created a multi-racial company where dancers were judged upon ability and not their race or background. This was groundbreaking since at the time racism led to limited opportunities for African American dancers. At 22 Ailey joined the Horton dance company where he would eventually become the artistic director after Horton’s passing. Ailey founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958. Popularizing modern dance, Ailey became known throughout the world as he traveled internationally with his dance company. Emphasizing the theatricality of dance, Ailey utilized intricate costumes, stunning lighting displays and makeup in his performances. The style of Ailey’s choreography incorporates aligned ballet legs with a more loose, “modern” torso. Ailey choreographed 79 pieces for the company before his death in December of 1989, one of the most acclaimed being Revelations. Revelations was created by Ailey in 1960 and brought fame to the company. The highly acclaimed piece is still preformed today by the company’s dancers. Ailey died of AIDS in 1989 after choreographing countless pieces for his own company and others such as the American Ballet Theater.
In this essay, the author
- Explains that alvin ailey, a dancer born in 1931, founded what is known today as the american dance theater. he faced intense racism and discrimination growing up.
- Explains that ronald k. brown, ulysses dove, and aszure barton created pieces for the ailey dance company.
- Describes four corners as an intriguing piece with great costumes and choreography.
- Explains that alvin ailey, a dancer born in 1931, founded what is known today as the american dance theater. he faced intense racism and discrimination growing up.
- Explains that ronald k. brown, ulysses dove, and aszure barton created pieces for the ailey dance company.
- Describes four corners as an intriguing piece with great costumes and choreography.
- Analyzes the storyline of episodes, which was about the conflict between man and women and the search for power.
- Analyzes how lift exhibited the pure physical strength and stamina of each of the dancers in the alvin ailey company and their perfect synchronization.
- Opines that attending the alvin ailey performance affected them greatly as a dancer. they were impressed by the passion and unbreakable focus of each performer.
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Biography of Alvin Ailey
analytical essay
DeFrantz, Thomas. "Composite Bodies of Dance: The Repertory of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater." Project MUSE - Composite Bodies of Dance: The Repertory of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Apr. 2014. .
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how alvin ailey, an iconic american choreographer, was born on january 5, 1931, in rogers, texas. he grew up in the height of racial segregation, lynching, and violence.
- Describes how alvin ailey's vision was to incorporate african-american heritage with dance and theatre.
- Narrates how the dance world mourned alvin's death. the new york times reported that he had terminal blood dyscrasia, a rare disorder that affects bone marrow and red blood cells.
- Analyzes how alvin ailey, an iconic american choreographer, was born on january 5, 1931, in rogers, texas. he grew up in the height of racial segregation, lynching, and violence.
- Describes how alvin ailey's vision was to incorporate african-american heritage with dance and theatre.
- Narrates how the dance world mourned alvin's death. the new york times reported that he had terminal blood dyscrasia, a rare disorder that affects bone marrow and red blood cells.
- Explains that the alvin ailey american dance theatre is a vital american cultural ambassador to the world.
- Explains that ailey ii was founded in 1974 as a second company for dancers and choreographers.
- Explains that the ailey extension offers classes to people of all levels and ages. these classes include: african dance, afro-caribbean, ballet, capoeira, contemporary, fitness/cardio, hip hop/street, horton, jazz/theatre
- Analyzes how alvin ailey's choreography, legacy, and company encouraged dancers to dance fully with intention. he told them to look outside the dance and at other artists to fully encapsulate their movements.
- Cites the ailey school's "homepage." the biography.com website.
- Narrates defrantz's "composite bodies of dance: the repertory of the alvin ailey american dance theater."
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The Lives and Work of James Earl Jones and Geoffrey Holder
analytical essay
Haskins, James. "Geoffrey Holder and Carmen De Lavallade." Black Dance in America. N.p.: n.p., 1990. 130-37. Print.
In this essay, the author
- Compares the voices of james earl jones and geoffrey holder in the arts during the late 20th century.
- Explains that james earl jones's early life was difficult, and he was a part of the great migration.
- Describes how jones struggled with a speech impediment at an interracial high school in michigan. his aunt suggested he write down his emotions, which led him to write poetry.
- Compares the voices of james earl jones and geoffrey holder in the arts during the late 20th century.
- Explains that james earl jones's early life was difficult, and he was a part of the great migration.
- Describes how jones struggled with a speech impediment at an interracial high school in michigan. his aunt suggested he write down his emotions, which led him to write poetry.
- Explains that a mute or stutterer leaves one painfully aware of how they would like to say something. jones wanted to be able to express himself but be in the safety of the scripts.
- Narrates how geoffrey holder's relationship with his brother boscoe led to his first job as a dancer, and his artistic choices in life.
- Describes how holder began choreographing, directing, and creating costumes for the company, as well as leading them on performances. in 1952, holder was asked by agnes de mille to audition for a role in new york city with sol hurok.
- Narrates how holder's stammer was overcome when he was asked to perform at a dance collection celebrating traditions of american and caribbean dance.
- Narrates how arnold saint subber saw holder perform at carnegie recital hall, and told him, "you're going to be in my next show." holder choreographed his own part in "house of flowers", taking the role of baron samedi, the "duke of darkness".
- Explains that james earl jones was in new york, ready to begin a career in theater. he had performed in plays during his time at the university of michigan.
- Analyzes how geoffrey holder and james earl jones had different views on showing their heritage and culture in their own work.
- Explains that geoffrey holder puts a lot of emphasis on his culture in his works. he co-wrote and illustrated the book "black gods, green islands" in 1959, and has played the role of baron samedi in multiple productions.
- Explains that geoffrey holder and james earl jones had risen to stardom at similar times, and their careers were achieving new levels. both would have great success in hollywood making movies.
- Narrates how jones became a star in the original theatre production and film "the great white hope." the play opened in 1967 in washington d.c., and was the target of hate mail.
- Explains that jones' experiences during the production of the play reflect his style of acting. he strives to become completely engrossed in the character he is going to play.
- Explains that geoffrey holder's greatest creation was "the wiz" in 1975. the production had a rough beginning, but it was successful in baltimore.
- Analyzes how holder exposes some personal qualities in how he approached the production of "the wiz." he can be seen as humorous in his approach to costume design.
- Cites distiller, natasha, dunning, jennifer, and gill, glenda eloise.
- Cites haskins, james, and schulman's "geoffrey holder and carmen de lavallade."
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Mary Wollstonecraft's A Vindication of the Rights of Women and Harriet Jacobs' Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl
analytical essay
the slaves. On the surface, these two works do not seem to be much related, but it is in this theme
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes mary wollstonecraft's a vindication of the rights of women and harriet jacobs' incidents in the life of a slave girl.
- Explains that they aren't allowed to have sufficient strength of mind to acquire what really matters.
- Explains that wollstonecraft and jacobs both focus on the institution of marriage as an indicator of the institution of marriage.
- Analyzes mary wollstonecraft's a vindication of the rights of women and harriet jacobs' incidents in the life of a slave girl.
- Explains that they aren't allowed to have sufficient strength of mind to acquire what really matters.
- Explains that wollstonecraft and jacobs both focus on the institution of marriage as an indicator of the institution of marriage.
- Narrates how the young wife soon learns that the husband in whose hands she has placed her is her husband.
- Analyzes how lexion plays with her own fair babies, and too well she knows that they are born.
- Analyzes jacobs, harriet, "incidents in the life of a slave girl, written by herself." the pearson custom.
- Analyzes how wollstonecraft's a vindication of the rights of woman and jacobs' incidents in the life of a slave girl, written by herself were revolutionary texts that were meant to inspire change and the liberation of people.
- Analyzes how slavery and women's rights both suppress a person’s natural identity and the only way to liberation is through the tyranny of slavery.
- Explains that wollstonecraft's and jacobs' texts are based on the idea that women and slaves are only defined by those who own them.
- Analyzes how jacobs' brother was forced to choose between his natural rights and the ones forced upon him. even though his father has claim to him, he still goes to his master.
- Analyzes how the dehumanization of the slaves, and of women, is necessary for the master to retain control.
- Opines that women must be told from birth that they are inferior, and bred to be docile and useless. because women and slaves are defined by their masters as being less than human.
- Analyzes how jacobs and wollstonecraft are calling for action to abolish their respective causes.
- Analyzes how jacobs questions the basis of the superiority argument, stating that it is not inherent inferiority that makes women and slaves so, but the fault of those who have created them.
- Argues that wollstonecraft and jacobs are saying that it is not by virtue through which men have attained their power, but through a mental attitude of superiority.
- Analyzes how women imply that the unhealthy mind-set of a man or master in power leads to violence and destruction of the identity in the home and family setting.
- Argues that the oppressive way a tyrant's mind works leads him to also tower over other people, in this case, he disrespects his wife, treating her as his property, as useless and good only for pleasure.
- Opines that only with true love, love based on friendship, marriage can be healthy and a woman can become her true self.
- Opines that a marriage should not be based on tyranny and oppression, but on mutual respect and friendship, which will last, even if the love does not.
- Analyzes how the two women are particularly fixated on the idea that men, in their tyranny and domination of both women and slaves, see their property as nothing more than another tool for
- Analyzes how wollstonecraft and jacobs suggest that when slaves and women are treated in this way, their bodies are nothing more than symbols for their lost identities.
- Analyzes how wollstonecraft talks on chastity in the male world until the person of a woman is not idolized. women are meant to be simple, silly creatures, full of beauty and shallowness.
- States that it is impossible for chastity to exist in such a world. wollstonecraft even goes as far to say that the sensualist, indeed, has been the most dangerous of tyrants.
- Analyzes how the two women have painted a bleak world in which there is not much room for improvement.
- Analyzes how wollstonecraft and jacobs highlight the importance of education as a tool to break free from oppression and fight the imminent loss of identity that comes with it.
- Opines that morals can be fixed on some immutable principle as those of man, but no authority can make them discharge it in a virtuous manner.
- Explains that wollstonecraft is saying that once women are educated and know their place in the world, they will understand that they are not there by choice, and they can choose another way.
- Opines that there is no other foundation for independence of character; they must only bow to ity of reason, instead of being modest slaves.
- Analyzes how wollstonecraft and jacobs state that the only way for both slaves and women to gain back their identities, their sense of self, is through true freedom.
- Argues that a person can only be respectable, human, once they recognize that they have to be free, independent of the rule and control of others. jacobs' response was that colored servants should be dissatisfied with themselves.
- Opines that jacobs is calling for major action in this statement. she is saying oppressed people have to recognize their rights and abilities and act with them.
- Analyzes how jacobs points out that her freedom has come at a cost, and that even though she has it, it is not true freedom.
- Analyzes how jacobs recognizes that the battle is not over, and the forces that caused her and her people to be enslaved, are not yet defeated.
- Analyzes how wollstonecraft views the mistaken notions that enslave his sex with indignation.
- Analyzes how mary wollstonecraft's vindication reminds us of oppression, despair, and hope. women were oppressed for centuries at the hands of false idea-toting men.
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The Rise To Respectability Essay
analytical essay
...interesting enough for the reader to overcome this disconnect, especially if interested in all facets of African American history. It provided information about this reviewer’s hometown, Memphis, TN, and its connection to the Church of God in Christ and the holiness movement that they were unaware of. That is what this kind of book is all about. It is not just to give a rundown of historical events and religion but to provide the reader with a means of a personal connection and it is up to the reader to find that connection. This connection may not be as noticeable as a fact about one’s hometown but could be deep rooted into the overall message of the work. Find that personal connection and this book will definitely be worth the read. Nevertheless this book provides an insightful window into religion and how it is able to connect with the many branches of history.
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how white explains the church of god in christ's international endeavors in west africa, the caribbean, and europe and how the great migration brought mason a vast amount of followers.
- Analyzes how white documents the reconstruction of african american religion by examining the effects of the holiness-pentecostal movement upon black history in regards to its cultural and religious impact.
- Analyzes how white fulfilled his purpose but at the expense of himself. the topic is interesting enough for the reader to overcome this disconnect, especially if interested in all facets of african american history.
- Analyzes how white explains the church of god in christ's international endeavors in west africa, the caribbean, and europe and how the great migration brought mason a vast amount of followers.
- Analyzes how white documents the reconstruction of african american religion by examining the effects of the holiness-pentecostal movement upon black history in regards to its cultural and religious impact.
- Analyzes how white fulfilled his purpose but at the expense of himself. the topic is interesting enough for the reader to overcome this disconnect, especially if interested in all facets of african american history.
- Reviews calvin white's book, the rise to respectability: race, religion, and the church of god in christ.
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Historical Events In The African Slave Trade By John Equiano
analytical essay
It shows how religion serves two main purposes during this time. It is used to justify slavery and later, to use it against it. Slave owners would take passages from the bible and interpret it as this was God’s design to own slaves and conform them to Christianity. This was the Christian thing to do according to God’s will. The bible was a powerful tool for slaves and it was often prohibited for Africans to access it. This is proven by when Equiano wasn’t able to purchase a bible during his travel in the West Indies. Slaves would be able to find encouragement from the scriptures and any possibility of rebellion or enlightenment was a fear for slave owners. The abolition movement was established by the Quakers to end the slave trade. Their campaign was built on the belief that God crated everyone equal in his eyes. The Quakers would preach reform in West Indies, American and Britain colonies. The significance the Quakers have is represented by the countless encounters and involvement Equiano shares with
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how equiano's life is based on the african slave trade, which brought hardship to his life. he also references barbados as one of the worst places for africans to go.
- Analyzes how the african slave trade is the foundation and what brings hardship into equiano's life.
- Analyzes how the bible was a powerful tool for slaves and it was often prohibited for africans to access it. the quakers would preach reform in west indies, american and britain colonies.
- Analyzes how equiano's life is based on the african slave trade, which brought hardship to his life. he also references barbados as one of the worst places for africans to go.
- Analyzes how the african slave trade is the foundation and what brings hardship into equiano's life.
- Analyzes how the bible was a powerful tool for slaves and it was often prohibited for africans to access it. the quakers would preach reform in west indies, american and britain colonies.
- Analyzes equiano's experience of being a free black man and how he experienced the severity of southern american colonies.
- Analyzes how the life of olaudah equiano is a story about his time in enslavement, and as free man. religion serves two main purposes during this era.
- Analyzes equiano's experience of being a free black man and how he experienced the severity of southern american colonies.
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Narrative Of The Life Of Frederick Douglass
analytical essay
Frederick Douglass presents an astonishing representation of the issues towards Christianity and religion. According to the narrator of the novel, there are two forms of Christianity that are represented in the text. There are both "true" and "false" versions of religion.In a slaves perspective, Christianity is considered to be their saving grace. Choosing to believe in God is their only reason to wake up in the morning and suffer through the exhausting list of chores they have to accomplish throughout the day. Participating in religious activities of worship gives them confidence that one day, God will save them from the cruelty they have endured for so long. Frederick Douglass admits to practicing of what is the "true" version of religion and the whites who openly oppose slavery. On the other hand, slave masters or remaining whites have flipped the purpose of Christianity and molded it into hypocrisy where it has become a bastardization of the true ideals behind genuine Christian thoughts. The reader gets the gist of the story that slavery and true Christianity are oppos...
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how frederick douglass' novel, narrative of the life, expresses his theory on the most unfortunate era for all african americans in america, known as slavery, and uses his life experiences to benefit the demolishing of slavery practices.
- Analyzes how frederick douglass presents an astonishing representation of the issues towards christianity and religion.
- Analyzes how douglass' newfound method of education led to freethinking, leading to revolts, and the possibility of leading in the collapse of the economy.
- Analyzes how frederick douglass' novel, narrative of the life, expresses his theory on the most unfortunate era for all african americans in america, known as slavery, and uses his life experiences to benefit the demolishing of slavery practices.
- Analyzes how frederick douglass presents an astonishing representation of the issues towards christianity and religion.
- Analyzes how douglass' newfound method of education led to freethinking, leading to revolts, and the possibility of leading in the collapse of the economy.
- Analyzes how the fear of antislavery became a true concept when fredrick douglas began to outsmart the people around him and gained an education that would later earn him his freedom.
- Analyzes how education has benefited the whites and african-americans who were fortunate enough to sneak their education. frederick douglass was one of the few to figure out the education was an essential key to freedom.
- Analyzes how douglass learned that the irish fought for freedom just like slaves wanted to fight for theirs. the moral which he gained from the dialogue was the power of truth over the conscience of even a slaveholder.
- Analyzes how frederick douglass views all human beings as equal but also states that individuals have to mold themselves in who they want to be.
- Analyzes how captain thomas auld became a "pious" man after not feeding slaves enough and enforcing harsh labor, revealing the underlying hypocrisy of the slaveholding south.
- Analyzes how douglass contributed his life to antislavery and sought education after escaping from slavery and seeking freedom in the north.
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Alvin Ailey's Role In Modern Dance
explanatory essay
One of the first concerts ever produced by his company was titled Blues Suite, which was a well-received depiction of poverty in the deep south set to a soundtrack of blues music. This concert was an integral part in defining Alvin Ailey’s choreography technique, which is loosely based on the technique associated in ballet with strong legs and feet, while still maintaining a more evocative, modern-style torso. However, the most critical element that determined the specific style of each piece was solely dependent on the story he wanted to tell. Revelations was a magnificent showcase of storytelling that quickly became Alvin’s signature dance concert. He drew inspiration for this piece from his memories as a child growing up in the south. According to the Dance Heritage Coalition, the concert, which has been viewed by twenty-three million people worldwide, featured the sounds of negro spirituals and gospel music with depictions of common worship rituals including baptism in Wade in the Water, the sacred act of taking communion in I Wanna Be Ready, and prayer in I’ve Been Buked (1). Additionally, Alvin also focused a great deal of his energy into creating a dramatic atmosphere for his dancers to perform in. He had a very strong creative influence in
In this essay, the author
- Explains that alvin ailey's american dance theater is one of the most respected and prosperous dance companies because of its artistic representation of african culture.
- Explains that alvin ailey was born during the great depression to two working-class parents in rogers, texas. his father abandoned the family when he was six months old, leaving him and his mother struggling to find work.
- Explains that alvin ailey's american dance theater company was widely successful because of its eloquent dance methodology and fine attention to detail in the thematic elements in each of his pieces.
- Explains that alvin ailey's american dance theater is one of the most respected and prosperous dance companies because of its artistic representation of african culture.
- Explains that alvin ailey was born during the great depression to two working-class parents in rogers, texas. his father abandoned the family when he was six months old, leaving him and his mother struggling to find work.
- Explains that alvin ailey's american dance theater company was widely successful because of its eloquent dance methodology and fine attention to detail in the thematic elements in each of his pieces.
- Explains that alvin ailey's work was the highest quality of entertainment and storytelling, and it bore a powerful educational and communicative influence. he received many prestigious awards for his work in the promotion of african american culture in dance.
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Alvin Ailey
explanatory essay
Most African Americans and many races respected Ailey because he was "A leading figure in modern dance, whose dances reflected his black Southern Heritage and are set to jazz or gospel music." (The New Book of Knowledge 587). In Ailey's dance company, there was one dancer that Ailey admired. Her name was Judith Jamison. She provided the inspiration for Ailey to dance to a solo piece, named Cry. Cry was for Alieys mother; dedicated to" all Black women everywhere-mothers." (Alvin Ailey Dance Company 3).
In this essay, the author
- Explains that alvin ailey was born in 1931 in rogers, texas, and attended sunday school and church at the baptist young peoples union. the ballet inspired him to pursue a career in dancing.
- Explains that ailey's dance company was founded in 1958 to enrich american modern dance heritage and preserve the uniqueness of black cultural expression.
- Explains that ailey was a leading figure in modern dance, whose dances reflected his black southern heritage and are set to jazz or gospel music.
- Explains that alvin ailey was born in 1931 in rogers, texas, and attended sunday school and church at the baptist young peoples union. the ballet inspired him to pursue a career in dancing.
- Explains that ailey's dance company was founded in 1958 to enrich american modern dance heritage and preserve the uniqueness of black cultural expression.
- Explains that ailey was a leading figure in modern dance, whose dances reflected his black southern heritage and are set to jazz or gospel music.
- Narrates how jamison worked to keep alvin ailey's dream alive, by keeping it going to this very day. denise jefferson trains over 3,500 dance students annually from every part of the world.
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Middle Passage
analytical essay
Examination into the true heart of experience and meaning, Charles Johnson’s Middle Passage looks at the structures of identity and the total transformation of the self. The novel talks about the hidden assumptions of human and literary identity and brings to view the real problems of these assumptions through different ideas of allusion and appropriation. As the novel tells Rutherford Calhoun’s transformation of un-awareness allows him to cross “the sea of suffering” (209) making him forget who he really is. The novel brings forth the roots of human “being” and the true complications and troubles of African American experiences. Stuck between posed questions of identity, the abstract body is able to provide important insight into the methods and meanings in Middle Passage.
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how charles johnson's middle passage examines the structures of identity and the total transformation of the self.
- Analyzes how the novel, middle passage, questions the structure of human and literary identity by testing the power of duel oppositions and abstraction to portray the meaning of experience.
- Analyzes how the body occupies an important part of middle passage, for small moments like rutherford's hiccuping whenever he seems into a philosophical dilemma to the enfolding of death and unconsciousness that marks his most profound transformation.
- Analyzes how charles johnson's middle passage examines the structures of identity and the total transformation of the self.
- Analyzes how the novel, middle passage, questions the structure of human and literary identity by testing the power of duel oppositions and abstraction to portray the meaning of experience.
- Analyzes how the body occupies an important part of middle passage, for small moments like rutherford's hiccuping whenever he seems into a philosophical dilemma to the enfolding of death and unconsciousness that marks his most profound transformation.
- Analyzes how rutherford's encounter with the allmuseri god in the cellar makes his relationship to his father more difficult to endure and think about.
1238 words
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african american religious music
analytical essay
The primary function of the Negro spirituals was to serve as communal song in a religious gathering, performed in a call and response pattern reminiscent of West African traditional religious practices. During these ceremonies, one person would begin to create a song by singing about his or her own sorrow or joy. That individual experience was brought to the community and through the call and response structure of the singing, that individual’s sorrow or joy became the sorrow or joy of the community. In this way, the spiritual became truly affirming, for it provided communal support for individual experiences. Slaves used the characters of the bible, particularly the Old Testament,...
In this essay, the author
- Explains that the negro spirituals served as communal song in a religious gathering, performed in call and response pattern reminiscent of west african traditional religious practices. slaves used the characters of the bible to tell their stories.
- Explains how the black church evolved from a religious sanctuary away from the eyes of the slave holders to an environment where black culture and music thrived.
- Argues that thomas dorsey's penchant for bouncy tunes and bawdy lyrics didn't keep him from attending the national baptist convention.
- Explains that the negro spirituals served as communal song in a religious gathering, performed in call and response pattern reminiscent of west african traditional religious practices. slaves used the characters of the bible to tell their stories.
- Explains how the black church evolved from a religious sanctuary away from the eyes of the slave holders to an environment where black culture and music thrived.
- Argues that thomas dorsey's penchant for bouncy tunes and bawdy lyrics didn't keep him from attending the national baptist convention.
- Analyzes how african american religious music has transcended all limits to become a profound force in american music.
- Explains that african american religious music is the foundation of all contemporary forms of so-called "black music."
- Explains that mahalia jackson, clara ward, and james cleveland were among the most notable gospel singers of the time.
2304 words
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To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
analytical essay
Despite all of these injustices, Chapter 12 also creates a feeling of support and sympathy for the black community. For example, even though they’re oppressed, the black community still has a sense of pride. Their church is called First Purchase because it was paid for with the first earnings of freed slaves. This shows the black’s great devotion to their religion.
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how harper lee introduces subtle instances of racism in "to kill a mockingbird," but when jem and scout are welcomed into cal's church in chapter 12, the reader gets to see the harsh realities of the injustices suffered by the blacks.
- Explains that jem and scout are unfamiliar with the church's hymns, and don't understand "nigger talk." lula, one of the black church members, says, "they got their church, we got our'n."
- Analyzes how poverty is another injustice suffered by the blacks. their first purchase church is old and worn out. the graveyard contains only a few expensive headstones, with most graves outlined by broken glass.
- Analyzes how harper lee introduces subtle instances of racism in "to kill a mockingbird," but when jem and scout are welcomed into cal's church in chapter 12, the reader gets to see the harsh realities of the injustices suffered by the blacks.
- Explains that jem and scout are unfamiliar with the church's hymns, and don't understand "nigger talk." lula, one of the black church members, says, "they got their church, we got our'n."
- Analyzes how poverty is another injustice suffered by the blacks. their first purchase church is old and worn out. the graveyard contains only a few expensive headstones, with most graves outlined by broken glass.
- Explains that the majority of the black community is illiterate because there are no schools for blacks in maycomb county. their only way of learning is from their parents or another elder.
- Explains that in tom robinson case, he has virtually no chance of winning strictly due to his race. bob ewell accuses tom of raping his girl.
- Analyzes how chapter 12 creates a feeling of support and sympathy for the black community. their church is called first purchase because it was paid for with the first earnings of freed slaves.
- Analyzes how the church selflessly takes up a collection for the robinson family with tom in jail, his wife barely having enough money to live, and cal hands the children her own money.
- Analyzes how even though the white people don't treat the blacks equally, they still show them respect, such as when jem, scout, and cal approach the church.
- Concludes that uses chapter 12 to break down the polite facade of southern society to let the reader see the actual racism that goes on in maycomb.
628 words
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Analysis of Leroi Jones' A Poem Some People Will Have To Understand
analytical essay
Jones employs the dynamics of change to his speaker throughout the poem. From an aimless vagrant to a passionate revolutionary, Jones plots his speaker's course using specific words and structural techniques. Through these elements, we witness the evolution of a new black man--one who is not content with the passivity of his earlier spiritual leaders. We are left with a threat--a steel fist in a velvet glove of poetry--and it becomes a poem that we "have to" understand, whether we want to or not.
In this essay, the author
- Analyzes how jones creates a forbidding speaker in the first stanza, which is direct and conservative, almost prosaic. the speaker is likeable, even in his self-deprecation.
- Analyzes how the speaker's reflection of his life-to-date leads into his assessment of where he is now.
- Analyzes how jones uses repetition to create a musical anthem or war chant that is resolved in the final stanza.
- Analyzes how jones creates a forbidding speaker in the first stanza, which is direct and conservative, almost prosaic. the speaker is likeable, even in his self-deprecation.
- Analyzes how the speaker's reflection of his life-to-date leads into his assessment of where he is now.
- Analyzes how jones uses repetition to create a musical anthem or war chant that is resolved in the final stanza.
- Analyzes how jones employs the dynamics of change to his speaker throughout the poem. through specific words and structural techniques, we witness the evolution of a new black man.
- Analyzes how leroi jones' "a poem some people will have to understand" is a confessional, reflective poem with mutability and change themes. the phrase "have to" has two meanings.
1065 words
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