Royal Dance Traditions by Ethan Parker

Royal Dance Traditions explores the profound connection between monarchs and dance, revealing how royal patronage shaped the evolution of this art form. Royal courts often dictated trends, influencing aesthetic ideals and the social function of dance. The book argues that royal investment served not only as financial support but also as a means for monarchs to project power and legitimize their rule, thus defining their cultural legacy.

The book begins by introducing the core concepts of royal patronage and dance, then traces ballet's development from the Italian Renaissance to its establishment in the French court. It broadens its scope to include case studies from Asian and African royal traditions, examining varied patronage systems and artistic innovations.

By using primary sources like royal decrees and costume designs, alongside secondary scholarly articles, the book offers a multifaceted view of the subject.

The book concludes by discussing the enduring impact of royal influence on modern dance, highlighting how historical traditions resonate in contemporary performance and choreography, presenting a fresh perspective on power dynamics and artistic expression.