Van der Leeuw begins his work by speaking of the unity between religion and dance. He draws upon historical evidence, saying that there once existed a time when art and religion were almost one and the same. Indeed, this is true, as religion was often the subject of almost all artistic expression for centuries. But beyond that he begins to delve into the inherently religious qualities of “the dance”. I think dance does have certain religious qualities, and this can be extended to other forms of art as well. Art may very well have a large religious imprint and influence. Artistic expression, particularly dance, can be very communal. Dance is often performed in the company of others. It is often exalting some higher force... it may be God, or perhaps an audience. People move rhythmically until they become intoxicated by an indescribable force. They bond spiritually and emotionally through rhythm, connecting themselves with one another in this ritual. These qualities can be paralleled with religious worship. Furthermore, many of these acts: dancing, singing, moving- these are all acts that take place in houses of worship. Indeed, the connections between religion and art are very strong and Van der Leeuw draws an important connection here.
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