Final Reflections
1 A Richer Appreciation for Nonverbal Expression Vanessa Devin Throughout this course, I have developed a deeper understanding of dance as more than just performance; it is a powerful cultural and historical lens. This paper will explore how studying global dance traditions reveal the ways movement expresses identity, belief systems, resistance, and change across time and place. By reflecting on what I’ve learned, I will demonstrate how these insights have influenced my thinking and will continue to shape my academic and professional path. I have come to learn dance is a vital historical and cultural artifact. Learning about dance from various regions and time periods opened my eyes to how movement reflects deeper societal values, spiritual beliefs, power dynamics, and historical change. From the sacred rituals of African tribal dances to the elegance of ballet in the Renaissance period, each form we studied offered a unique window into the iden...