Summary:
The primary role of the dance in the Samoan culture is as an expression of individual personality. This is seen as something of compromise in that much of the rest of every day life is conducted much more conservatively and repressively. The secondary role of the dance in the culture is to reduce shyness and self-consciousness. The dance allows individuals of any age or sex to show off their prowess and show their creativity.
Discussion:
In a lot of ways, this is something of the opposite of our own American culture. For one thing, most people I have ever known have felt more uncomfortable out on the dance floor. American popular culture is also quite proud of our individualistic nature in all things, in contrast to the reserved nature of the Samoans. Individuality in the dance, though, is one area where both cultures draw a common area.
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