Our co-President, Nor'dzin, introduced to members to period dancing at the June meeting. She talked about the principles of good manners, polite behaviour, honour, dignity, elegance and integrity that are key features in the novels of Jane Austen. Nor'dzin suggested that Austen presents an image of a potentially ideal society. Landowners and the well-to-do look after their tenants and the local community, recognising the good fortune of their own situation. Emotions are controlled rather than expressed, allowing politeness and dignity to prevail. This idyll is a fantasy created in her novels, rather than a true reflection of how society was in the time she was writing.
Film and television productions of Austen's books have upheld this atmosphere of elegance and refinement. This is particularly demonstrated in some of the dances that have become associated with these production, even though these dances are not historically accurate for that time. Nor'dzin was accompanied by friends from 'My Lady's Dancers' – a group led by Phillipa Waite, and internationally acclaimed teacher of period dance. Three dances were demonstrated: The Earl of Essex Measure, Hole in the Wall, and Mr Beveridge's Maggot. After this members joined in to learn the first two of these dances. It was a most enjoyable afternoon.
Many thanks to Sheila for the photographs.
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