This book investigates the historical and cultural evolution of belly dance, tracing its origins and transformations across different regions and time periods. Anthony Shay, a scholar with extensive research in dance ethnography, utilizes a combination of historical texts, visual evidence, and ethnographic fieldwork to present a comprehensive analysis of the dance form. The core argument posits that belly dance, far from being a static or purely exotic practice, is a dynamic cultural expression shaped by social, political, and artistic forces.

This work is recognized for its scholarly rigor and comprehensive approach to the study of belly dance. Scholars in dance studies and Middle Eastern cultural history often cite Shay's research for its detailed historical tracing and nuanced cultural analysis. The book is considered a foundational text for understanding the complex social and historical contexts surrounding this performance art.