Course description
This course focuses on the centrality of Ludwig van Beethoven to the evolution of music, not simply at the technical and spiritual levels, but how his stupendous influence over the world of classical music transcended into high art and popular culture. We examine in tandem the evolution of his musical style with representative paintings and sculptures of him and of monuments in his honor. How Beethoven became central to the Peanuts comic strip and inspired eponymous and biographical films plays a significant role in this course. Why, for example, would a Saint Bernard have been called "Beethoven" and not another breed of dog? Why and how did "Für Elise" become such an iconic piano work, adored by many, deplored and bemoaned by as many? How have the opening motive of his Fifth Symphony and the "Ode to Joy" of the Finale to the Ninth borne the mantle of human rights? And finally, has Beethoven been overpopularized? We also examine popular representations—serious, whimsical, and gaudy—to substantiate his ubiquitous stature in world culture. These and many more issues and questions are discussed as we discover—and for some, rediscover—at least fourteen major works during this fourteen-week course. In addition to in-class time, private Onlines are available to discuss issues of writing techniques, specific issues related to musical vocabulary, and bibliography.
