Irish Dance Essay Example for Free

Irish Dance Essay Dance has always been an integral part of social gatherings and it is likely that it evolved before or autonomously of music as we know it today, as the human body contains rhythms of its own in heartbeat and breathing, therefore it is somewhat a natural instinct of movement. The earliest social dances were circular and linear chain dances, dating to 1400-1200 BC, of these the ‘ring’ dances, which used a sacred tree or stone as central focus are most likely the oldest. Couple dances arose in the twelfth century as a break up of the line into pairs in procession, and/or in response to the ‘courtly-love’ concept in the songs of the Troubadours, which developed within the courts of Europe presenting differentiation from court and folk dance. In particular, French cotillions a ‘square’ dance for four couples developed and moved to England, America and Ireland as did the later quadrilles (sets). In Irish dance history specifically: haye, rinnce fada and rinnce mor are the three names used to referring to the action in old literature. The first reference to dance in the Irish language is 1588. Rinnce appears first in 1609 amd ‘damhsa’ ten years later. HB15 It is not until the 17thC that we have any real documention referring to dance not just confined to Ireland worldwide. Citm: The common people in Ireland may have been dancing more free-form, simple dance, to fiddle and pipes. As well as courting, dancing had important social ritual functions. Rinnce fada is described as being performed on May-eve and dancing is associated with other important times are the year, e. g. Bealtaine, births, weddings, wakes. It is a matter of speculation whether country dances had an identifiably Irish form, but seems highly likely that group dance was part of the native Irish tradition in this period. Step dance itself is an accurate, rhythmic performance genre that focuses chiefly in predetermined leg movements. Done either in group or solo. hard shoes enhance the percussive nature of the treble reel, jig, hornpipe and solo set dances whereas soft shoes emphasise the graceful, airborne nature of the reel, slip/single/light jig. The primary solo Irish step dances are the jig, reel and hornpipe. The jig is first mentioned in Ireland in 1674. Four variants exist within Irish dance traditions: double, single, slide and slip, the most common of these being the double. Double: most common dance tune after the reel. 6/8 time characterised by rhythmic pattern of groups of three quavers. While jig tempo is generally lively when played solo, competitive dancers usually call for a greatly reduced tempo in order to execute their complicated footwork. Single: either 6/8 or 12/8 time. Crotchet followed by quaver. Associated with specific soft-shoe solo dance still performed in competitions today, usually by female dancers. A fast version of the tune is referred to as a slide and is used in the dancing of sets. Slide: essentially dance music. Long-short rhythm of tune is echoed by movements of dancers. Dancing of sets and, along with the polka is particularly associated with music and dance traditions of Sliabh Luachra, where it is brisk tempo of 12/8 tunes that dominates. Slip: 9/8 time. Distinct from other jig types usually in single form, continues to be danced in competitions usually by females in soft shoes. The reel is done to the music of tune type with same name and given its present dominance in music and dance, it may seem surprising that the reel is a relative latecomer to the Irish scene. Scholars are agreed that the reel as a dance tempo with its associated faster figures and stepping did not attain universal popularity in Ireland until the late eighteenth century, whereas across the water in Scotland it had long existed in many forms. The hornpipe originates from the mid eighteenth century and has maritime connections. The later, common time version made its way to Ireland where it was adopted by the dancing masters as a showpiece. Heavy stepping deemed it unsuitable for female dancers and for a number of years was solely male domain. Today, is used in solo dance and certain set-dances. Most likely came from England in late 1700s. There it had taken its present form in 1760s and was a figure dance, its older forms in 3/2 time and was performed between acts of plays usually by professional dancers. In Ireland, it became the supreme display of intricate footwork. HB: A sole reference in 1718 to the hornpipe is not necessarily a solo dance, as the measure was also used in some country dances. Very different initially to what it is known as. Other dances include: The German is a variant of a nineteenth century popular continental ‘schottische’, adopted as a couple dance in Co. Donegal, in 4/4 time and similar in tempo to a barn dance. Mazurka 231: is in ? time and is a round dance done by four couples, implemented more vigorously than the sensuous waltz. Adopted into Donegal tradition, it is one of the many local couple dances but is no longer commonly danced. Barn dance 25: is a form of ‘round the hall’ social dance most popular up to 1950s that is generally performed to hornpipe time (4/4), but in relation to marching practice is danced to 6/8 time in north Co. Antrim. March 228: among the most ancient music forms in any country. Originally related to military activities and incorporated into dance in Ireland to utilise the number of tunes so called. Quick march used in popular early 1900s dance as the ‘quickstep.’ in Irish tradition most common in 4/4, 2/4 and 6/8. During the ceili band ear many common song melodies were recruited as march tunes. Because of the redundancy of the bulk of traditional music in dancing entertainment, the march has fallen out of popularity and will almost never be heard played except in a limited fashion in ceili dances. Sean-nos 383: ‘old style’. traditional style of solo step dance. Freedom of arm movement, steps do not follow prescribed pattern and stepping is close to the floor. Public presentation highlighted one of Connemara culture features which was unrecognised by and possibly even unknown to the authorities of Gaelic League. Prior to the 1970s the local term was simply an bhatrail (the battering) and was on verge of extinction but such was the enthusiasm engendered by its new community staging, that many local people began to see this dance as a badge of culteral identity and a source of pride. Set dance 346: ‘a set of quadrilles’ and comprises a combination of irish dancing steps and French dance movements, danced to irish music. Developed by 18C dancing-masters who travelled in various parts of Ireland. Originally taught solo step dancing and created group or figure dances for their less talented pupils. In time the also included new dances such as the minuet, cotillions, and quadrilles. Brought from France, to England, Scotland then Ireland by military personnel and other travellers of the time. Dancing masters first taught them to upper classes in big country houses and later to the ordinary people in barns or at crossroads in the summer. Irish sets have most likely evolved from these or from other quadrilles that are no longer popularly danced. Today, most of the sets are named after their local town or area. Historically, ‘set’ dancing has been frowned upon by religious authorities of all denominations. Set dancing had been banned too by the Gaelic League in the early 20C and new ceili dances were taught by the Dancing Commission. It enjoyed a remarkable revival all over Ireland throughout late 20C, attributable to work of individual set-dance teachers, and also to CCE and the GAA network of set-dance competitions since the 1970s. 23. Main event of 18th C in dance terms introduction of reel and hornpipe measures. 19th C saw arrival of quadrille. 25. Quadrille sets (or half sets for 2 couples), were initially ballroom dances, moved from â€Å"polite† society (via dance masters or local enthusiasts) to country houses of rural Ireland and urban centres. Far from adopting these new dances, the Irish dance tradition absorbed them and made them something new in terms of figures, musical tempo and stepping. This cross fertilisation of new imports with elements of older dances - result in a new and identifiably Irish product. 27. Certain areas became associated with particular sets. 28. Apart from sets, most popular new dances in 19th C were ballroom dances such as the scottische, barndance, military two-step and waltz. When reached areas where traditional dance was strong, absorbed into the repertoire and subtly changed by effects of Irish stepping and local musical tastes. Fintan Vallely: The Companion to Irish Traditional Music.

Rape and Intimate Partner Abuse Essay examples -- Sex Crimes

In every 45 seconds, someone is sexually violated in the United States. Out of every 6 women, one has experienced an attempted rape or complete rape. Lesbians and bisexual women remain at increased risk of sexual victimization compared to heterosexual women. In order for a woman to determine the direction of her life, she must first determine her sexuality. Sexuality is a deep, integral part of any human’s life. This should not be a subject of coercion or debate. The society must recognize that a woman has the right to freely pre-determine her sexuality without oppression and discrimination (Burn, 2004). Traditionally, women throughout history and culture have undertaken the role of independent, non-heterosexual, women-connected existence. Lesbianism according to ancient literature review has always existed. The practice has always been unacceptable and deviant. Lesbians are subjected to rape more often than other women. Worldwide, lesbians are subjected to verbal and physical abuse. In most cultures, lesbianism occurs prior to heterosexual marriages. These facts were gathered by Faderman in 1981. Female-female romantic relationships were found in European communities since the 17th century through the early 20th century after studying the fiction and poetry written during this period (Burn, 2004). Today, many societies view bisexuality and homosexuality as a sickness. The societies deny their existence entirely. However, biologists and psychologists believe that both are mere instances of many human variations. After successful lobbying by gay and lesbian political organizations in 1974, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) eliminated homosexuality from its list of mental disorder. The APA now takes the position that homos... ...(2010). External Barriers to Help-Seeking Encountered by Canadian Gay and Lesbian Victims of Intimate Partner Abuse: An Application of the Barriers Model. Violence and Victims, Vol. 25(4), 536-552. Pinto, S. (2012). Intimate Partner Violence: Sexual Abuse. CINHAL Nursing Guide. 1-2. Renzetti, C. M. (1996). The Poverty of Services for Battered Lesbians. Journal of gay and Lesbian Social Services, Vol. 4, pp 61-68. Tigert, L. M. (2001). The Power of Shame: Lesbian Battering as a Manifestation of Homophobia. Women & Therapy, Vol. 23, pp 73-85. Walters, M. L. (2011). Straighten up and Act Like a Lady: A Qualitative Study of Lesbian Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence. Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Service. Vol. 23, pp 250-270. West, C. M. (2002). Lesbian Intimate Partner Violence: Prevalence and Dynamics. Journal of Lesbian Studies, Vol. 6(1), pp 121-127.

Is History True? Essay

Historical theories are just like any theory – are subject to controversy among different populations and groups. Two of the most imminent historians, Oscar Handlin and William McNeil gave interesting viewpoints backed up by strong points. In Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Controversial Issues in American History, Volume II, gave an interesting overview of how these two elite historians are able to state their points so clearly. As highly influenced as their works are which allowed me to see from within their internal â€Å"window;† I find myself agreeing more with Handlin’s perspective. According to Oscar Handlin from Truth in History (1979), gave a startling concept of how historical truth is based on the obvious evidences – those that we can understand and interpret. Handlin gave implicit indications that history does ring truth due to the fact that our current evidence of the past should be based on thoughtful analysis and not just necessary based on numerical or statistical evidence as those obtained by scientific measures. Oscar Handling says that evidence is chronological, evidence is vocabulary, and evidence is context. Fact is something of common ground for all historians despite the difference in their interpretation and that scientific methods must be used to distinguish between fact and opinions. McNeil on the other hand, have a different opinion on this matter. McNeil speculates that historical truth is not influence by the desires or vision of the viewer, but is actually solid scientific evidence itself. McNeil’s essay, â€Å"Truth, Myth, and History†, gave an emphasis on the falsehood of historical truth, and also highlights the idea that it have no â€Å"scientific methodology† behind it, making it nothing but judgments, choices, and interpretive opinions. McNeil believe that all the â€Å"evidence† becomes nothing but a type of collection, almost like in literature for the reader to understand and interpret but does not give a credible â€Å"meaning or intelligibility to the record of the past. † McNeil argues that truth is more likely a myth and distinguished by different groups in different situation at different time. In other words, historical truth is more like the way with which one interprets the material depending on their circumstance and environment. Almost like a self-fulfilled prophecy of the human mind and not actual facts. He further speculates that every culture has its own version of truth; truth about its own culture as well as the â€Å"truth† about other cultures. Truth to one person may not be truth to another. He later concludes that all these outside forces of culture, background, relationships, and society affect the level of truth whether the individual realizes it or not. History tends to be biased based because they heavily relied on what the truth means to each person in a personal manner. McNeil believes that history is a myth and becomes self validating. In my analysis of the work of these two striking viewpoints, I must admit that I agree more with Handling for a variety of factors. McNeil gives implications of his viewpoints on the truth and validity of history and how he feels that scientific evidence must be present for history to be consider a truth. I find this to be a flawed approach because to base every piece of knowledge upon â€Å"scientific evidence† has a bit of hypocritical ring to it. It is also important to point out that current historical findings are not found according to historical viewpoints alone, but is a mixture of scientific technology and many experts from all categorical discipline that weave up our current knowledge of history as well. Just because we can’t prove something doesn’t mean it does not exist unless we can prove that it is indeed nonexistent. I believe that as humans, we all have an original curiosity for what we know now and just because something cannot be measured scientifically does not necessary label it as untrue. For instance, psychology was once considered â€Å"untrue† by scientific standards but have now find its way into the scientific arena. On the other hand, scientific evidence are not always â€Å"true† when new evidence proves that the previous â€Å"truth† is indeed false. This gave me reasons to believe that it is better to take on a flexible approach when it comes to historical evidence. In defense of Handling’s viewpoint, historians also use scientific tools such as DNA replications and half-life techniques to determine the age and location of its artifacts. The truth in History is off course, as important as the truth in any discipline. History is based on facts derived from the past and thus provides a solid foundation on the truth of the information obtained. Historians are able to obtain the historical information from different locations and find sources of evidence or those leading to evidence. The truth in history is thus, built on the foundation of facts and grounded in common knowledge and understanding. History is depended upon to develop a society and used as a tool to correct political mistakes of the past. Historians have the necessary skills and tools to analyze and validate historical events, evidence, and facts – as much as scientists have the skills and advanced technology to analyze scientific evidence. Therefore, Harding’s theory is more accepting and that history is indeed based on the truth and knowledge of historical evidence and the foundation of our diverse understanding and development as a civilized community. Work Cited: Handlin, Oscar. Truth in history. Cambridge, Mass: Belknap P, 1979. Madaras, Larry, and James M. SoRelle. Taking Sides Clashing Views on Controversial Issues in American History, Vol. II. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. Schwandner, Stephanie. Albanian Identities Myth and History. New York: Indiana UP, 2002.

Meaning of Euthanasia - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 660 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2019/02/06 Category Medicine Essay Level High school Tags: Euthanasia Essay Did you like this example? Whats euthanasia? Euthanasia is a painless loss of life, some may additionally say euthanasia is a undeviating act for taking a lifestyles through prescription drugs. A patient that has a quick amplify of life can address such an problem with their healthcare provider. Counseling may be furnished before the very last choice is made by means of manner of medical doctor and the patient. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Meaning of Euthanasia" essay for you Create order At anytime the patient reserves the proper to with draw from the gadget. The affected person however want to have top reason for the approach before a doctor will approve this kind of request. Written documentation can be acquired from the ethics of clinical and studies at the net web site, through his/her medical docs workplace. If the scientific health practitioner has agreeded with affected character that this is the best alternative each patient and medical doctor could be blanketed via jail binding files and felony tips of that united states of america. The patient additionally has the proper to request own family, pals and spouses to be present for the duration of the time of this process. This shape of euthanasia can be considered as a voluntary act. Pick out and describe criminal guidelines regarding euthanasia to your nation. The extermination of lifestyles is constrained in Louisiana and at some stage in the complete the usa. Louisiana proper to existences center for medical Ethics systematized into regulation the Louisianas natural lack of existence Act for consenting or denying medicinal remedy which currently explicitly peruses: no longer anything on this aspect can be translated to excuse, approve, or choose leniency slaughtering or killing or to permit any agreed or sensible act or oversight to give up lifestyles other than to permit the function procedure of passing on (RS forty:1299.fifty eight.10). Explain a latest case about euthanasia and its very last outcomes. Mr. Noel Conway is a sixty seven 365 days antique termally ill man need to exercise the regulation on assisted loss of life, in order that he may go in a more dignified manner. The request have become provided and denied 3 times in court docket. Mr.Conway found out that the Suicide Act of 1961 contradicts article eight in reguards to human life and privacy to the judges. but to no avail the judges did not go with the flow on the act of euthanasia. Mr. Conway plead his case on the legal depend and he said that hes going to keep to come back in advance than the courts till his request is granted. Mr. Conway has a respiratory tool that includes each breath for him. in spite of the fact that hes dieseased ridden, his best preference is to smother to loss of life through getting rid of the breathing tubes in his nostrals. Mr. Conway feels as although his rights as a human grow to be now not handiest granted however disreguarded. Mr. Conway isnt predicted to stay skip every other yr. perhaps if he had offered his request underneath six months of life while in a sturdy frame of thoughts. He would possibly have had a higher hazard at dieing a non violent loss of life and announcing good-bye to like ones at his very own leisure. some other reason why his request emerge as denied is due to the truth he modified into depending upon his medical health practitioner to assist with this act. but the legal guidelines isnt always in select of act and is strictly prohibited. Based totally upon what youve got study, deliver your opinion on euthanasia, and assist your argument I am toward euthanasia due to the reality it is morally incorrect. on the way to disregard human life because of ailments and sicknesses strips away the cost of mankind. this can additionally begin a trend inside the medical challenge for the usage of euthanasia as treatment in preference to a cure. For spiritual motives this takes existence from the hands of a higher spiritual electricity.