Date of Award
Spring 6-2014
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Organizational and Multicultural Communication
First Advisor
Dr. William Baglia
Second Advisor
Dr. Barbara Speicher
Abstract
The study explores how Russian women’s socio-cultural experiences can be understood through belly dancing and transformed in belly dance classes. The study findings are based on the analysis of eleven interviews with Russian women of various ages and occupations, engaged in belly dancing for an extended period of time. Drawing on belly dancing as an embodied practice within the Russian context, the findings demonstrate that initial expectations of Russian women regarding belly dancing mutated over time, and new meanings were attached to this bodily practice. The emergent meanings are broadly conceptualized within the following dimensions: (1) remedial effects of belly dancing; (2) the bodily knowledge; and (3) the empowering effect of belly dancing. The study argues belly dancing has a powerful transformative effect on Russian women.
Recommended Citation
Khartulari, Galina, "Russian Women and Belly Dancing: Body Work, Fun and Transformation" (2014). College of Communication Master of Arts Theses. 24.
https://via.library.depaul.edu/cmnt/24