Beethoven: Eroica Symphony
Beethoven:<I> Eroica Symphony</I>
$59.00
USDBeethoven's Third Symphony, originally entitled "Bonaparte", now bears the title "Eroica" ("Heroic"). Napoleon promised an Enlightened Europe but ultimately Beethoven was disillusioned by him. This handbook treats the politics, aesthetics, reception, and musical meaning of this decisive work, which, because of its unique design, powerfully expanded the potential of symphonic expression. Beethoven's ideals, derived largely from the writings of Friedrich Schiller and clearly perceived already by the composer's contemporaries, are readily apparent in the music.
- An in-depth study of what is perhaps Beethoven's most provocative work
- This book clarifies the politics, historiography and aesthetics which influenced Beethoven as he wrote this work
- A new contribution to the issue of the dedication of the symphony to Napoleon and the subsequent withdrawal of that dedication
Reviews & endorsements
"Sipe's admirable contribution...is unique in offering `little by way of specific analytic remarks'(p. ix). This volume offers a great deal: valuable historical background, reception history, aesthetic theory, and a close reading of the `Eroica'. In addition, it provides a rich compendium of `Eroica'-related materials. The author is to be congratulated for focusing renewed attention on the interpretive value of understanding Beethoven's intense interest in classical literature, particularly Homwer, and in aesthetic theory, particularly Schiller. No doubt Sipe's contribution will encourage others to pursue this important area of inquiry." Jenny Kallick, Notes
Product details
September 1998Paperback
9780521475624
160 pages
216 × 140 × 9 mm
0.21kg
9 music examples
Available
Table of Contents
- 1. From revolution to Empire: overview
- 2. Compositional genesis
- 3. The dedication to Napoleon Bonaparte
- 4. Reception
- 5. Aesthetic background
- 6. Interpretation.
