Classical Dance: “Apollonian” vs “Dionysian” Art

Abstract

The article presents a retrospective look at the development of classical dance as an Apollonian art. The methodology of the article is based on Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical views on the artistic work creation. The categories “Apollonian”, “Dionysian” introduced by the philosopher are used as a basis for analyzing the formation and development of classical dance as a separate and independent art. The interrelation between vectors of classical choreography development and both cultural and historical factors, ideologemes of a particular epoch is noted. The author is concerned about the fact that the classical dance lexicon is less often used as semantic material for modern performance. It is suggested that there are possible reasons for the stagnation of classical dance in contemporary realities. The author comes to the conclusion that the generation of new plastic ideas and dance techniques should be carried out in the reliance on the traditional values of culture. The growth of the Western European idea of “chaos” will allow to fill up the classical dance with “Dionysian” forces and create the highest “Apollonian” art.