Tango

Paper Summary:

This paper shows that although Tango music symbolizes the idealized sophistication of high society, with men in trendy suits and women in sparkling gowns, its origin lies within the dark corners of Argentine society. It discusses its overwhelming impact on Argentina's cultural identity, society, and economy is irrefutable; and explains how it is used to channel artistic expression and to share cultural customs.

From the Paper:

"Music historians have traced the word "Tango" to European lineage; it is allegedly from the Spanish "Ta'ir", or a deformation of the word "tambo" used by the (Spanish) colonizers." Some believe the word was borrowed from the Portuguese "and that it would have reappeared at the slave plantations." (http://www.traveltango.com.ar/) Pronunciation of Tango is said to have an African origin. It "is a phonetic deformation of the name Shango, black God of the tempets who eats fire, wears lightening bolts and speaks with thunder." (http://www.traveltango.com.ar/)
In the Nigerian language of Nago, the name of that God is written Sango. The "S" sound is not as the French CH or the English SH. Opposite to what it is usually assumed, it is similar to a Spanish S, whistling sound, so that the articulation from SANGO to TANGO is made with a minimum degree of difficulty." (http://www.traveltango.com.ar/)
While there is no definitive birth of Tango music, there are many theories about its beginnings. It is speculated that Tango began in turn-of-the-century brothels. Valente suggests its origins lie in the dances and music of the African slave communities in the Rio de la Plata region. (Valente)"

More papers on Tango:

• Essay # 61456 : "Tango and Mass Culture"
• Comparison Essay # 124428 : "Tango and Kathak Dance"
• Argumentative Essay # 23268 : "Terrorism - It Takes Two to Tango"

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