Capoeira: Roots of the Dance-Fight-Game

by Nestor Capoeira

Capoeira is simultaneously a dance, a fight, and a game. Created by the Africans brought to Brazil as slaves beginning in 1500, capoeira was forbidden by law but survived underground. When open practice was allowed in the 1930s it soon became very popular. Capoeira came to America around 1975, and has become widely recognized by dancers and martial artists. The author discusses capoeira's evolution from Brazilian street play into a way of life. The philosophy of capoeira, and the practical and spiritual benefits of this philosophy, are also discussed. Instructions and exercises in intermediate and advanced skills take up where the author's previous book left off. The book includes 100 black-and-white photos and illustrations.

Genres: Martial Arts, Sports, Brazil, History

346 pages, Paperback

First published July 8, 2002

Reviews

[Dominic DeBernardi]

Who better to share the story of capoeira, than someone who's last name IS Capoeira?

Nestor shares the origins of the "game" as well as the philosophy of the people behind it, and their journey transforming the "fight" or "struggle" of their existence into: a dance.

I give 5 stars because of how much this book has influenced my life, personally. After years of capoeira classes and playing in the "roda," you may get a feeling or a sense of how capoeria sees and interacts with the world, but Nestor tells you directly what is happening, why and what it means, as a philosophy.

[Balogun]

found it very biased. It's clear he is for the regional style and not Angola.

[Simon B]

Great history and philosophy that surrounds this martial art.

[Jesse]

Oh so educational!