Religion and Dance Research Paper (Mossi)

Mossi
The Mossi are located in Burkina Faso, in sub-Saharan Africa. Unlike other groups in Africa whose traditional religions have been supplanted by Islam and Christianity, seventy percent of the Mossi people follow their traditional religion. Wende is their creator. Different styles of dress, make-up, masks and dance connect them to their god and to their deceased. You will research the culture, how they connect with their deities, dances associated with religion and history. You will also include all of the preceeding requirements for the paper.

How does this form of dance impact the followers of the religion? Do you find it to be an inclusive or exclusive practice within the religious community? Give examples that demonstrate this feeling of inclusion or exclusion.
Describe the different capacities in which this dance is currently performed-in both religious and secular contexts. Research to find how these juxtaposed performances are valued (devalued) by members of the community. Consider this, would you participate in this dance if you were a member of this community? Why or why not? If you visited the area, would you attend one of the performances as a tourist? Why or why not?
Does this particular dance have a greater impact on this culture, including non-believers or followers of other religions within the same region? Do you believe the practice of this dance either creates tension or builds bridges between this religious culture and others? Why or why not?
How does this dance and its accompanying music compare to that of another religion? Are there similarities in ceremony, practice or tradition? What is the greatest contrast between these two dances? Do you believe one is more beneficial for its community that the other? Why or why not?
How do you think this dance would be received on our campus at TJC? What reaction do you think viewers would have and how might it impact them? If you learned the choreography, would you participate in the dance?

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