MUS 15 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Georges Bizet, Colin Mcphee, Peter Pears
Document Summary
The other and the self: exoticism, gamelan, and sexuality. Wrote 15 operas (one of the best in 20th century) Several operas deal with themes related to queer people in society. Britten himself was a homosexual and a pacifist (people who are looked down upon in society) Fisherman on trial for negligent homicide (apprentice died on his watch) Later is free of charges - needs a new apprentice, but society bans him from getting someone new. Wife finds him a new apprentice, who later dies. Peter grimes tries to cover up - then kills himself to get away from society"s ostracization. Peter grimes is seen as an outsider. Reference to homosexuals and pacifists in society who feel like outsiders. Grimes is not a criminal but is treated like one and is not accepted. Based on thomas mann novella der tod in venedia. A relationship/attraction between older man and younger boy. Falls in love with (but does not have contact with)
