FRENCH BALLET Meaning and
Definition
-
French ballet refers to a distinctive style of ballet that originated in France and has greatly shaped the development and artistry of the dance form. It is characterized by its refined technique, grace, elegance, and precision. French ballet has its roots in the court of Louis XIV in the 17th century and was subsequently enriched by the contributions of influential choreographers and dancers.
French ballet places emphasis on the fluidity and agility of movements, with a focus on clean lines, intricate footwork, and precise positions. It is renowned for its meticulous attention to technique and its dedication to conveying a sense of lightness and effortlessness on stage. The traditional vocabulary of French ballet includes terms such as plié, tendu, développé, and grand jeté, among others.
The French ballet technique is known for its rigorous training methods, with a strong emphasis on the use of turn-out, which refers to the outward rotation of the hips to create a visually appealing line of the legs. The training also involves a significant focus on épaulement, which refers to the inclination of the head, shoulders, and upper body as a means of expressing emotions and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the performance.
French ballet has also contributed to the development of various ballet genres, including the romantic ballet in the 19th century, characterized by narratives with supernatural themes, and the intricate and demanding classical ballet techniques. Noteworthy French ballet companies, such as the Paris Opera Ballet, have been at the forefront of preserving and advancing the traditions of this esteemed dance style.
Etymology of FRENCH BALLET
The word "French Ballet" refers to the ballet tradition and style that originated in France. The etymology of the term is fairly straightforward. The adjective "French" refers to France, the country known for its rich cultural history, particularly in the arts. The word "ballet" comes from the Italian word "balletto", which referred to a dance performance or a dance form that emerged during the Renaissance.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, ballet began to develop and flourish in the French court under the patronage of King Louis XIV. It was during this time that ballet technique and vocabulary started to be codified, leading to the establishment of the French school of ballet and creating the foundation for what is known today as classical ballet. The French ballet style emphasized grace, precision, elegance, and formalized positions, providing the basis for many of the techniques and terminologies used in ballet worldwide.
