 | The Romantic ballets generally have a tragic plot, incorporating the mortal and supernatural. (The sylph in La Sylphide, the wilis in Giselle, the water nymph Ondine, the fairy in La Peri, the swan maidens in Swan Lake, more fairies in The Sleeping Beauty, the Shades in La Bayadére.) Women in general symbolized beauty, love, and immortality. Our poor hero usually meets his end after being enchanted by one of our 'white act' women. |
| A characteristic of women's Romantic costumes is the long white tutu. This helps to creates the illusion of skimming across stage, along with the ever-developing pointe dancing. Technically, Romantic ballerinas are much different than those of today. Her shoes were not very supportive (Maybe only stuffing in a slipper), causing her upper body to be tilted forward for balance. Pointe technique did not extend much farther than a single pirouette and perhaps a pique or two. |  |
