Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

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.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• 1 From revolution to Empire: overview
• 2 Compositional genesis
• 3 The dedication to Napoleon Bonaparte
• 4 Reception
• 5 Aesthetic background
• 6 Interpretation

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Though Beethoven's Eroica Symphony has received as much discussion, commentary, and analysis as practically any work in the repertoire, it remains fertile ground for scholars, as Sipe's lovely study demonstrates. The author traces the work from sketches and various musical ancestors to publication and performance; this is accomplished clearly and convincingly. However, the inquiry goes much further, comprehending many skeins of social, political, and musical thought that influenced Beethoven as he conceived and executed his symphony. In particular, the composer's relationship with Napoleon is unraveled and revealed to be more complex and dynamic than some other literature suggests. Sipe also considers the early critical response to the Eroica and critics' first efforts to analyze it. The book provides a rich yet subtle aesthetic context for Beethoven's symphony; this is a "whole history" of the Eroica. Since there are few musical examples and little analysis save that suggested by the earliest writers, the discussion is accessible to readers beyond the musical community. Recommended to all libraries. B. J. Murray; University of Alabama