“Mansplaining”, “bro-code” and agonistic femininity in breakdance

Abstract

This article revolves around the manifestations of an agonistic femininity as it is formed in the male-dominated breakdance scene in Greece, through a case study. It critically examines the concept of femininity in breakdance as a fluid signifier and space pole of reflection of precarious and subaltern subjectivations and positionalities but also as a driving force for an agonistic stance. Through the exploration of the relationship between the anthropologist and a female breaker (bgirl), the text rhythmically unravels the aspects of the dancer's personality, revealing the socio-political and ethico-political context of her agonistic action and agency, but also, it also sheds light on the transnational heteropatriarchal structures and sensibilities of gender in breakdancing through male sexist practices such as mansplaining and bro-code. Furthermore, to critically negotiating the embodiment and signification of femininity and its importance as an analytical category, the text designates the contribution of hip hop studies and feminist approaches to street dances and hip hop through the lenses of philosophical poststructuralist reflections. The article is based on long-term audio-visual ethnographic research for the production of the ethnographic documentary "Girls Wanna Just Dance" (2024).