1. The Egalitarian Waltz by Ruth Katz
Edited by Dr. Kay Picart
and Jessica Labbé
Based on a presentation by Erin Cianchette

2. Review Question:
How does Katz characterize the waltz?

3. Review Question:
What is the definition of ‘egalitarian’?

4. Question:
What role did class play in the evolution of the waltz?

5. Discussion Question:
Why do you think the waltz is/was such a popular dance?

6. Postmodernism and the waltz
One reason that the waltz is/was so popular is that it breaks down social and class distinctions.
How does the waltz do this? Can you relate this to postmodernism?

7. Discussion Question:
Do you agree that the purpose of the waltz is to “teach and improve and contribute to the happiness of the general public and be the possession of every man”? (526) Why or why not?

8. Review Questions:
How does the waltz reinforce American individuality?

9. Review Question:
How does the waltz allow for escape?

10. Concluding Question:
Do you think the waltz still occupies the same social-political space? Does it still signify the egalitarianism Katz characterizes the waltz with?