Moving Lessons: Margaret H'Doubler and the Beginning of Dance in American Education

Rating:
Summary: Great Book on Origins of Dance in American Universities
Review: This is an excellent book that provides an illuminating history into the origins of dance in education, specifically in American Universities during the early 20th century. Special attention is paid to the influence of Margaret H'Doubler (1889-1982) who in addition to being a dance education pioneer, was a trained biologist who introduced her dance students to anatomical observation using a model skeleton prior to commencing their dance studies.

This is just one of many examples of the historical detail found throughout the text, which beyond being a scholarly work, offers many insightful views of the convergence of dance history, feminism, and the role of women in higher education.

I recommend this book to those interested in a superbly researched history of a dance education as well as those intrigued by the vision and struggles of pioneering women in American education such as H'Doubler.