Title of the article:

PRAGMATICS OF THE BALL IN RUSSIA IN A DIACHRONIC ASPECT: FROM ORIGINS TO MODERNITY

Author(s):

Natalia S. Usanova

Marina L. Arkhipova

Information about the author/authors

Natalia S. Usanova — Associate Professor, Institute of Slavic Culture, A. N. Kosygin Russian State University (Technologies. Design. Art), Khibinsky Pr., 6, 129227 Moscow, Russia.
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4220-5058
E-mail: nafo69@mail.ru

Marina L. Arkhipova — PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor, Institute of Slavic Culture, A. N. Kosygin Russian State University (Technologies. Design. Art), Khibinsky Pr., 6, 129227 Moscow, Russia.
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8060-3295

Section

Theory and history of culture

Year

2022

Volume

Vol. 65

Pages

pp. 71–82

Received

October 21, 2021

Approved after reviewing

February 15, 2022

Date of publication

September 28, 2022

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37816/2073-9567-2022-65-71-82

Index UDK

008

Index BBK

71(2) + 85.325.6

Abstract

The paper aims to explore the ballroom culture, namely the Russian ball as an example of a social phenomenon. The study applies a comprehensive approach to the dance evening (ball) and systematizes the changes in its functions throughout the entire period of its development. The authors note that the dynamics of changes may be traced from the moment the ball assemblies of the 18th century were introduced until the end of its active development at the beginning of the 20th century. The case study draws upon literary works, available documentary and archival materials, displaying specifics of the Russian ball. The authors of the research highlight the complexity, variability and inconsistency of the ball`s structure and come to conclusions about the great importance of the Russian ball for the life of the Russian society of the period under study, changes in etiquette as manifestations of historical stages and turning points in the development of society. The paper dwells upon describing the relationship, interaction and place of the participants in the dance evening. At the end of the article, the potential possibilities of using the traditions of the Russian ball in relation to the modern society of Russia are evaluated.

Keywords

Ball, dance evening, masquerade, etiquette, ball culture, performing, small talk, dance meetings, traditions, assemblies, social phenomenon.

References

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