The undergraduate thesis researches how understanding of femininity and shaping of relationship to the body reflect in oriental dance. It studies what role dancing plays in constructing oriental dancer’s identity. It also problematises orientalist characteristics that are hidden in meanings of the dance and questions its subversive potential. The thesis examines construction and enactment of personal and gender identity through a performative body practice. In addition, it explains the ways in which femininity is being expressed in interpretations of dance moves, music, clothing and revealing of the body. It analyses the (objectifying) power of gaze and enquires whether it is inherent to dance. The thesis tries to explain the ways in which dancers internalise society’s ideals about femininity and body and how, in the process of dancing, they reshape them into a more likeable and acceptable form.
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