Spain’s diverse cultural identity through the example of selected regional dances

Abstract

The following article attempts to answer the question to what extent regional
dances reveal the complex cultural identity of the inhabitants of selected Spanish
regions. To elaborate on this question, the terms “culture” and “cultural identity”
will be introduced at the outset. Although some scholars restrict the latter
concept to individuals only, the author’s position is that human beings, by existing in a social, cultural and communal context, can more consciously experience
and manifest their cultural identity. Moreover, undertaking various activities
within it, such as those related to the cultivation of regional dances, may
result from a strong sense of multifaceted identification with a particular social
group. Therefore, the next step will be to provide a definition of dance as an element
of culture and as a means through which to express one’s identity. After
this introduction, taking into account the main idea of the article, some dance
forms of selected Spanish regions will be discussed: muiñeira, jota, ezpata dantza,
sardana and flamenco. It will then discuss the basic components that make
up the chosen dance, such as its origin, i.e. the historical, social and religious
context, as well as its geographical conditions, character, performance, instrumentation
and costumes. A very important element in the formation of dance
forms was the intermingling of different cultures. Consequently, Spanish dances
form a wide range, consisting of many different forms. On the other hand, they
form a peculiar whole, demonstrating the cultural identity of Spain as a “community
of autonomous communities”.