Supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena or entities that exist beyond the laws of nature and cannot be explained by scientific understanding. In the context of dance, particularly during the rise of Romantic ballet, the supernatural is often represented through themes of ghosts, spirits, and otherworldly beings, which created a sense of mystery and enchantment on stage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rise of Romantic ballet in the early 19th century saw a significant focus on supernatural themes, which allowed choreographers to experiment with fantastical narratives.
2. Ballets such as 'Giselle' showcased ethereal beings known as Wilis, who were spirits of brides betrayed by their lovers, emphasizing the tension between reality and the supernatural.
3. The use of special effects, like mist and dim lighting, helped create a mystical atmosphere that enhanced the audience's connection to the supernatural elements in performances.
4. Choreographers and composers often drew inspiration from folklore and legends, weaving these tales into their works to amplify the otherworldly aspects of dance.
5. The supernatural theme was not just limited to visuals; it also influenced the music of this era, with composers creating haunting melodies that evoked feelings of wonder and fear.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of the supernatural influence choreography during the rise of Romantic ballet?
  • The concept of the supernatural significantly influenced choreography by encouraging dancers to embody ethereal characters like spirits and ghosts. Choreographers used innovative techniques to create movements that suggested lightness or weightlessness, reflecting otherworldly qualities. This allowed for a departure from traditional ballet forms, emphasizing emotion and imagination as dancers portrayed supernatural narratives that resonated with audiences.
• In what ways did Romantic ballet utilize staging techniques to enhance supernatural elements in performances?
  • Romantic ballet utilized various staging techniques such as dim lighting, smoke machines, and intricate sets to create an enchanting atmosphere that amplified supernatural themes. These effects helped transport audiences into a mystical realm where they could believe in ghosts and spirits. The combination of these elements with evocative music further heightened emotional responses, making the supernatural aspects feel more tangible during performances.
• Evaluate how the exploration of supernatural themes in Romantic ballet reflects broader cultural shifts during its time period.
  • The exploration of supernatural themes in Romantic ballet reflects broader cultural shifts toward valuing emotion, imagination, and individual experience over rationality during the early 19th century. This era saw a reaction against Enlightenment ideals, leading artists to embrace the unknown and mysterious aspects of life. By incorporating supernatural elements into dance, choreographers tapped into contemporary anxieties and fascinations surrounding death, love, and the afterlife, mirroring the romantic sentiments that permeated literature and art at that time.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, often contrasting with the rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Ballet de Cour: A type of French court ballet that included elaborate choreography and was often infused with themes of mythology and fantasy.

Gothic: A style characterized by elements that evoke feelings of horror, mystery, and the supernatural, often seen in literature and art during the Romantic era.