Spanish Theater: Poetic Drama, Independent Groups, and Protest
The Poetic Drama
Alejandro Casona: We consider two aspects of his theater: the fantastic and the educational. In La Sirena Varada, Trees Die Standing, and La dama del alba, he demonstrates his skill in creating a surreal and magical atmosphere through poetic language. In works like Nuestra Natacha, Casona attempts to communicate certain ideas, to teach.
Antonio Gala has excelled in all genres: poetry, novel, television screenplay, journalism, and theater. He entered the world of drama with The Green
Read MoreBaroque Music: History, Characteristics, and Forms
Chronology of the Baroque Period
The Baroque period followed the Renaissance and preceded Classicism. It spanned from the 17th century until the middle of the 18th century. Musically, it began with the emergence of opera, marked by Jacobo Peri’s Euridice (the first preserved opera) composed in 1600, and ended with the death of J.S. Bach in 1750.
Social Context
Absolutist monarchies were prevalent, with the King representing the maximum power. Society was divided into three estates:
- 1st Estate: King
Renaissance Music: Key Concepts and History
What Does Renaissance Mean?
Renaissance means “rebirth.” It signifies a return to classical standards, placing humans at the center of the universe. This period saw a spectacular development of the arts.
What Inspired the Renaissance?
The Renaissance was inspired by Greco-Roman antiquity.
Which Fields Did the Renaissance Cover?
The Renaissance encompassed architecture, painting, literature, philosophy, and music.
How Are Renaissance Artists Known?
Renaissance artists are known as humanists.
Who Were the
Read MoreMusical Journey: West Africa to Southeast Asia
West Africa
Ghana
Mami Wata – Kwaa Mensah
Vintage Palmwine. Mami Wata is a water spirit recognized in various forms across West Africa.
Nigeria
Taxi Driver – Bobby Benson
Dance-band Highlife in Nigeria.
“Viva Nigeria” – Fela Kuti
Highlife-jazz style. Gained recognition and financial support from the Nigerian federal government. The song later embarrassed the Nigerian federal government due to its slogan, “Keep Nigeria One.”
James Brown
Superbad “funk,” an influence on Fela Kuti’s mature Afrobeat
Read MoreBaroque Art and Music in 17th-18th Century Europe
Baroque Art and Music
Baroque Art in Italy
Baroque art originated in Italy and immediately spread throughout Europe. It is a decorative, sensuous, moving art, full of contrasts. Its style is very expressive, with a great sense of drama. It can become affected and luxuriant because of the passion for fantasy and ornamentation.
Baroque Music
Baroque music is also very striking: colorful, vital, moving, and full of dynamic contrasts. It presents many contrasts.
In Spain, there was no shortage of music,
Read MoreEvolution of Dance: From Prehistory to Contemporary Forms
History of Dance
Dance, one of the oldest art forms, relies solely on the body and human vitality to express feelings and subjective experiences. It was among the earliest forms of artistic and personal expression. The development of artistic sensitivity shaped dance as an aesthetic expression.
Prior History
Prehistoric cave paintings in Africa and Southern Europe depict dancers. According to Paulina Ossana, this expression is called imitative, figurative, or abstract. Dance played a vital role in
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