The Eroica Symphony is perhaps Beethoven's most provocative work. Its unprecedented design and its powerful emotional impact forever redefined the potential of musical expression. The work was conceived as a homage to Napoleon Bonaparte, but understood for over a century as a passionate rejection of the tyranny he came to represent. This book traces the compositional process and puts the Eroica in precise historical and aesthetic perspective: the political situations that brought about both the dedication to Napoleon and its withdrawal show that Beethoven followed diplomatic developments astutely. Early interpretations by Beethoven's contemporaries show that they understood the work's import clearly. This study focuses on Beethoven's unique ability to imbue traditional symphonic forms with the idealism of his philosophical mentor, Friedrich Schiller.

A handbook examining the 'Eroica' Symphony - perhaps Beethoven's most provocative work.
Reviews
' ... a substantial, up-to-date, well-written biography of Beethoven.' The Musical Times



Book Information
ISBN 9780521475624
Author Thomas Sipe
Format Paperback
Page Count 160
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 210g
Dimensions(mm) 216mm * 140mm * 9mm