| OCR Text |
Show 490 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. The master ought to place the body and arms of the learner in a right position, so as to render all the attitudes commanding and graceful. (See plate I, fig. 3, and plate XI, fig. 2.) The art of stepping with grace, of making a bow, of introducing oneself, and of carrying oneself in company, are essential points, and such as ought to be rendered as natural as possible to the learner. T o execute the bow properly, the following rules must be observed : - W h e n walking, stop in such a manner that the weight of the body may rest upon that leg which is advanced. Then, moving the one behind, cause it to assume the fourth hinder position, the third, and the second. Having arrived at the latter, shift the stress of the body upon the leg forming it, and bring the other leg round into the first position, the heels being placed against each other, and the toes turned outwardly. (See plate X V , fig. 4.) After having bent the knees properly, incline the body according as it is represented in the same figure. Let your arms fall easily and naturally, and let your head assume an unaffected inclination ; for every movement must be executed with an easy air. Having made the salute, slowly raise your body to its usual perpendicular attitude, regain your customary deportment, disengage the leg which had been placed in the first position behind, changing it into the fourth behind, and shift the weight of the body upon that leg. Whether you intend to renew the salute, or to continue your walk, always finish upon the advanced leg. Usually, and in society where it is not absolutely necessary to observe a strict etiquette, the salute is generally executed in the third position, but the feet must be always turned outwardly. (Sec plate X V , fig. 3.) |
