HMU111H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Early Christianity, Epic Poetry, Medieval University
1 Apr 2016
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Lecture 1: the music of antiquity: antiquity (before middle ages) Philosophers plato (believed in higher forms) and aristotle (worldly) Epic poetry (sung stories) and greek tragedy (euripides oldest music) Roman empire absorbed a lot of greek culture, conquered greeks in 146bc: middle ages (500-1400) Instruments embellished melody while soloist or ensemble sang: renaissance (1400-1600) German, harpsichord + orchestra, strict tempo, vocal dialogue. Music could influence ethos: an ethical way of behaving. Aristotle"s theory of imitation music imitates passions of the soul (gentleness, anger) Plato"s republic: balance music and athletics, use dorian and phrygian modes, which foster passions of temperance and courage, our job is to climb the ladder to righteousness, the lowest are at the bottom. Origins of music theory: greek harmonia unification of parts into orderly whole. 5th century roman empire declined in wealth and strength. Boethius (roman philosopher: de institutione musica (fundamentals of music): important musical text studied at the medieval universities.
