Beethoven's "Eroica".

Paper Summary:

This essay will examine the relationship between program and music in Eroica. Beginning with a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of this mode of analysis, the composer's program - and, most especially, the composer's attitude toward the program - will be examined. While the controversies surrounding Eroica will be briefly explored, it will be argued that the program of the symphony is integral to an understanding of its function. In this context, the contradictions evident in the symphony's Second movement - its "Funeral March" (Marcia funebre) - will be seen as a key element in Beethoven's communication of his program celebrating "Heroism" in general as opposed to an heroic individual in particular.

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