The Encyclopedia of World Folk Dance

Snodgrass (Encyclopedia of World Ballet) examines "the placement of folk dances within world history" in this useful reference. Each entry cites its source(s) at the end. Some summaries place folk dance within a subject, as in "Art, Folk Dance In" or "Film, Folk Dance In." Examples of dances mentioned include the czardas, the mazurka, the polonaise, the Highland fling, and the hula as well as Native American dances such as the sun dance and the ghost dance. There are general entries ("Greek Dance"; "Jewish Dance"), along with more intriguing ones (e.g., "Dragon Dance"; "Parasol Dance"). Rituals—coming-of-age, nuptials—are covered as well. Shamanic dance, worship dance, and sacrificial dance give yet additional perspectives on movement as ceremony. This resource is noteworthy for its interweaving of dances with information on their respective countries/cultures and their purposes and meanings. Students doing reports will benefit from the helpful bibliography, which separates primary and secondary sources, and from the glossary and chronology. Color and black-and-white photographs provide examples. Often one has to research a country to find out more about its traditions, but this book offers an overview that is subject specific, making it a strong option for those seeking folk dance materials.