Final answer:
In the 1830s, waltzes and polkas spread to various social classes and countries, were regarded as risqué due to their closeness, and despite clergy opposition, the popularity of these dances continued to increase, reflecting a shift in social norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Waltzes and Polkas in the 1830s
During the 1830s, courtship dances such as the waltzes and polkas experienced a transformation. These dances began to spread beyond their traditional settings and became popular in different social classes and countries. The energetic and close-stance nature of these dances was considered risqué at the time because they allowed men and women to be in closer physical proximity than what was deemed appropriate according to the social norms.
Popularity of Dances and Their Perception
Waltzes and polkas also became popular in areas such as music halls in Britain, burlesque theaters in the United States, and cabarets in Paris. Accessibility to entertainment varied, and working-class individuals sought enjoyment in dance halls where these dances were enthusiastically embraced. Despite the long hours worked in factories and offices, young city dwellers found energy and satisfaction in partaking in these lively dances.
Reactions from the Clergy
Preachers and ministers often spoke against these dances, deeming them as immoral and a contributor to social decay. Their efforts, however, varied in effectiveness. In certain cases, they may have reduced the frequency of such dances among their congregations, but overall, the popularity of dances like the waltz and polka continued to grow, evolving along with the social norms of the era.
The Legacy of Evolving Social Dances
The evolution of social dances reflected larger cultural changes. For instance, by the 1920s, dances like the Charleston, performed by flappers in nightclubs, further pushed the boundaries of acceptable social behavior signifying the continuing shift in public sensibilities concerning dating, sex, and individual expression through dance.