International » Caribbean Traditions » Mento

Dances from the islands are usually of religious and social significance, though a dichotomy between the two is not necessary: they need not be mutually exclusive phenomena. The mento is a dance of social significance, objectively and minimally, in Jamaica. It is highly syncopated and the last beat of each bar receives the emphasis. Mento is used to ridicule members of the social group or censure them for some misdeed. The symbolism is significant but the purpose to an outsider remains hidden.