Between Classicism and Romanticism Chapter 14: Beethoven Between Classicism and Romanticism

Key Terms Classicism Romanticism French Revolution Eroica Symphony

Classic to Beethoven Timeline

Classic-Romantic Timeline

Music and Individual Emotion In the 19th century, music was taken seriously as an art on the highest level for the first time in European history Music, more than any other art, could mirror one’s inner emotional life 19th century music was emotionally more direct & unrestrained than ever before Composers took on a new, exalted role The composer as genius (or high priest) Individuality & personality were prized

Beethoven (1) The most significant, iconic figure in music history The tough, angry genius staring down adversity Producing one deeply expressive masterpiece after another Music “came of age” with Beethoven His works struck listeners as a revelation His music has enjoyed uninterrupted popularity from his day to the present

Beethoven (2) Music was never taken so seriously before Beethoven Listeners were also awed by his personal struggles – especially with deafness A new concept of artistic genius emerged Composer no longer a talented craftsperson Now a great soul who suffered & created for all humanity Music now existed in the highest reaches of the artist’s spirit

Between Classicism and Romanticism Beethoven’s roots were firmly Classical A student of Haydn with a lifelong commitment to principles of Classical style But Beethoven treated those principles with creative freedom He filled older structures with a new sense of excitement, urgency, & striving These qualities signal Romantic stirrings Beethoven’s music is instantly distinguishable from Haydn’s and Mozart’s

The French Revolution Ideological impact of French Revolution on Beethoven’s generation was enormous Ideals of freedom, liberty, & equality Beethoven admired Napoleon as hero of the Revolution He also identified with this man of humble beginnings who rose to the top by virtue of his natural gifts & abilities But Napoleon betrayed the Revolution Proclaimed himself emperor in 1803

Beethoven’s Eroica Beethoven wrote a descriptive symphony called Bonaparte Written to honor Napoleon the hero Beethoven’s breakthrough work - the first to show his full individual freedom as an artist When Napoleon was crowned Emperor— Beethoven scratched out the title in a fury Now dedicated to the “memory” of a great man Remains a monument to Beethoven’s heroic striving & inner triumph