Basse danse

Basse danse is a dance particularly characteristic of the 15th century, when it reached its apogee of popularity at the French courts and in the Duchy of Burgundy. Intended for the courtly environment, it served the presentation and self-creation of each dancer. Called the “queen of dances,” the basse danse requires of its dancers an attitude full of dignity, pride and elegance. The Manuscript of Margaret of Austria from the late 15th century records the steps and choreographies of 59 basse danses with various titles derived from the names of towns and villages. Performed in triple meter, it contains within its structure three forms of double steps differing in length and number: petite mesure, moyen mesure, grande mesure. The basic steps described in Margaret of Austria’s Manuscript include simple (single), double, reprise, branle and reverances, i.e. bows of various lengths at the beginning, end and during the dance. Most of the steps are performed on the half-fingers, which gives the dance a special lightness and elegance.