The Phenomenon of Sword Dancing in Europe. Cultural-historical contexts

Abstract

Sword dances belong to the oldest layers of dance culture. The origin of these dances, which can be described as a phenomenal manifestation of dance culture in almost the whole of Europe, unfortunately cannot be reduced to a single genetic basis. It goes without saying that such dancing would not still exist today without its bearers. Sword dancing has been gradually modified in some countries, losing its ceremonial function or its connection to the calendar cycle, and being transformed into a theatrical form; in some countries it is now only maintained by small groups of dancers as a social occasion. The tradition of sword dancing is a unique example of Europe‘s intangible cultural heritage. The ancient chain and circle form of the dance is an element common to European countries, apart from the connection with the carnival season. The dance itself has its own specific features – dance patterns, costumes, clothing accesories, and props, which are unique components of the dance that point to its archaic character. The aim of the study is to document these dances, identifying the characteristic features and common expressions across almost all of Europe, or in the countries where they have been documented.