ARTH 204
Historical Research in Dance and Performance Studies Fall 2024
Division I
Cross-listed DANC 103

This course is an introduction to the analysis of historical and socio-political context of movement-based performances. While readings and viewings will focus on dance genres practiced at Williams and beyond, an important element of the course will be the practice of documenting, interpreting, and writing about performances. The course will enable students interested in dance, theater, and visual arts to hone their skills in the practice of analyzing still and moving images, while also offering students of history and art history the opportunity to develop competency in historical research. This is primarily a discussion-based seminar course. Learning objectives: to understand the social and political contexts for various artistic and performative genres; to develop the ability to document, analyze, and write about dance as a socio-historical practice; to explore interdisciplinary modes of engaging with movement-based performances.