The Feminist Lens
A feminist lens or feminist literary criticism, is examination and analysis informed by feminist theory or politics. This means recognizing that literature both reflects and shapes cultural and societal structures – understanding why and how the patriarchy and patriarchal attitudes undermine those looking to make feminist change. A feminist lens can be applied to anything and everything in the past, present, and future. There are no boundaries, no topics too big, small, old, new, or anything in between that cannot be examined with an eye for feminism.
Ballerina practicing a variation at the Philadelphia Ballet
Why should ballet be examined?
Ballet has never been a fair sport. Whether it be race, class, gender, body size, or practically anything else – discrimination exists. It is seemingly impossible to cover all the aspects of discrimination throughout the sport. The entirety of ballet has been based on unrealistic beauty standards. It is so engrained in the art form that removing that aspect of dance seems unthinkable. Eating disorders, sexual harassment and assault, grooming, racism, sexism, agism, etc. are prevalent. With the built in physical touch and intimate quarters, it is extra important for boundaries to be set and for voices to be heard. Though some companies are steadfast in old habits of hiring skinny, White ballerinas, other companies are making it a priority to hire dancers of every race, size, and gender. It is important to continue this trend in order to create safer, more diverse spaces for those who were once not welcomed.
Contrary to popular belief, feminism is not only possible in ballet – it is necessary.