Final answer:
It is true that the first major center of ballet was France, which set the standards for the art form through the creation of the Académie Royale de Danse and was illustrated in works by artists like Edgar Degas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the first major center of ballet was France is true. Ballet originated during the Italian Renaissance and was developed further in France. It was particularly cultivated in the French courts during the reign of Louis XIV, who was an avid dancer and established the Académie Royale de Danse in 1661. The style and technique of French ballet set the standards for the art form, leading to the development of the classical ballet that we recognize today. Paintings from the Impressionist era, such as Edgar Degas's The Ballet Class and Pierre-Auguste Renoir's Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette, showcase the popularity and evolution of dance, including ballet, in France. These artworks depict the vibrancy and cultural significance of dance during this period. The reference to Degas's work emphasizes the artistry of ballet, its impact on visual arts, and its enduring connection to French cultural life.