Question

Describe the features of nineteenth-century ballet and opera. What specific Romantic ideals did nineteenth-century ballet and opera express to its audience?

Answer 1

In the early 19th century, when urban life was developing, Romantic movement was begun by the artists, poets and dancers. This was due to their longingness towards the nature. In ballet dances, women dominated and male dancers were unaccepted by the audience. The costumes of the ballerinas that time, stands out with long skirt shaped like a bell. It was considered as a symbol of fashion. For their pointe work dance, ballerinas had their slippers designed especially to provide additional support. Romantic Ballerinas became famous in Europe and the lithographs showed their romantic elements which were ethereal. Ballerinas on stage, were shown resting on clouds and floating in air and resembled flowers.

Opera is a form of theatre, where there is number of arts performing however music has the lead role. It happens in an opera house. Since 19th century, it is led by a conductor and happens in the format of continuous music drama. It is considered as a golden period for opera. Carl Maria developed Romantic opera, by giving it an out of the world experience. This century wtnessed national opera movement which had folk songs fused with the romantic themes and stories of that century. Extra horns, percussion instruments, huge strings were some of the romantic elements which provided an exotic experience during the era.