The exciting dances of the Elizabethan period reflect the spirit
of the age, when new worlds were being discovered and adventurers
like Drake and Raleigh brought treasures from afar to adorn the
court of Elizabeth I - 'Gloriana'. Already excommunicated by the
Pope, Elizabeth scorned many of the conventions of Catholic Europe,
and danced with glee dances such as La Volta, forbidden in Europe
by the Pope as indecent! Other dances, such as 'Buffens' (seen right)
and the 'Battle Pavan', portray mock battles, and are very exciting.
