Philosophers and the Dance by David Michael Levin Edited by Dr. Kay Picart and Jessica Labbé Based on a presentation by Elizabeth Colvin
Review Question: According to Levin, what role have religious and ethical foundations in western civilization played in dance?
Discussion Question: Do you agree with Levin’s interpretation that Christianity’s cross and resurrection are evidence that “we do not really believe in the holiness of the human body as it is here and now on Earth”? (87)
Review Question: How has mind/body dualism prevented philosophers from understanding dance? THE CLASSICAL BALLET GROUP OF MOSCOW, Russia "Creation of the World", CH. Natalia Kasatkina
Review Question: According to Levin, what must any philosophy of the dance begin with? "Apollo Distraught", CH. Richard Alston
Review Questions: What is phenomenology? Why is it especially useful when one is critiquing dance? CHRISTINA HOYOS, Spain "Flamenco Ballet"
Review Question: What are the three interdependent levels of critical appreciation and interpretation that an adequate approach to philosophy of art necessitates?
Discussion Question: Do you agree that the recognition of these three levels will improve and benefit dance philosophy? Why or why not? LE BALLET ROYAL DE WALLONIE, Belgium "Roméo et Juliette", CH. Jorge Lèfebre
Concluding Question: Do you think that dance will ever find a true niche in philosophy? How so, if so? If not, why not? SCAPINO BALLET, Nertherlands "Concerto Grosso", CH. Charles Czarny
Concluding Question: Is it possible to have a philosophy of the dance? Justify your answers carefully.