A Comparative Study of Self-expression and Catharsis in Theory of Mystical Journey at Manṭiq-uṭ-Ṭayr (Conference of the Birds) and Biodanza
Simin Meshkati
PSENR-19, LCABES-19, L2HSS-19 & ABLE-19 June 19-21, 2019 Lisbon June 19, 2019 DOI: 10.17758/eirai5.f0619421 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that both Attar's seven-valley mystical journey in the Conference of the Birds and Toro's Biodanza can be understood through Feshbach's catharsis theory, with each path moving the dancer, reader, or spectator through Discovery and Reversal toward catharsis, described as cleansing, purging, or purification. Proposes that releasing unexpressed emotions reduces tension and anxiety, and that Biodanza participants reach catharsis by connecting with nature and feeling part of a greater totality. |
Abstract
Spiritual consciousness can come in many forms; it can happen during moments of dance or even in poetic narrations.This article is designed to compare self -expression and spiritual development through Dance and Poetic Mysticism.The question arises, how different theoretical foundation can reach to psychological catharsis.It is supposed that a mystic journey is going to be closed with catharsis.During this journey, the main character (the dancer, the reader or spectacular) will undergoes Discovery and Reversal to reach the catharsis, which means cleansing, purging, or purification.Seymour Feshbach, key proponent of the catharsis theory in communication research, separates three conceptions of catharsis: The Dramatic, the Clinical, and the Experimental models.The thought behind catharsis theory is that feelings formed and create stress if not expressed.Releasing emotions declines the tension in the person so they have less violent and anxiety.The Dramatic and Clinical models are emphasized on change, while differing in cathartic experience, in the degree of cognitive representation caused, and in the interpersonal context.The purpose of this study is to give a psychological study of mysticism by reviewing The Seven Valleys of spirituality in Conference of the Birds.Attar has described the seven stages of spirituality in this book as the tools of discovery and rehearsal: The Valley of Quest, The Valley of Love, The Valley of Wisdom, The Valley of Detachment, The Valley of Unity, The Valley of Amazement, and The Valley of Annihilation.To free from belongings, to release from the self, these seven valleys is suggested by Attar to be passed.self is one of the biggest obstacles in human life.In the eyes of the mystics, you must -Quest‖ first.Attar is a mystic who has put "Annihilation" in the last place.Sober die has not a tragic meaning but means of getting free of self and join the real source of nature.On the other side, Biodanze is also another journey that can interpreted by theory of catharsis.Toro believes that when five categories are entirely developed within the individual, people (the dancer) can experience inner stability and emotional health.He named these categories as Vitality, Sexuality, Creativity, Affection, and Transcendence.Journey in Biodanza is started by vital impetus and happiness to be alive.The dancer will reach to catharsis when he connects to nature and feel part of a greater totality.