The Cambridge Companion to the Eroica Symphony

A stimulating, up-to-date overview of the genesis, analysis, and reception of this landmark symphony.

An insightful overview of Beethoven's Eroica Symphony from three main angles: genesis, analysis and reception. It not only summarises previous research but also includes many fresh insights, based on new evidence. The Companion presents a range of approaches, by twelve leading scholars in Beethoven research.This Companion provides orientation for those embarking on the study of Beethoven's much-discussed Eroica Symphony, as well as providing fresh insights that will appeal to scholars, performers and listeners more generally. The book addresses the symphony in three thematic sections, on genesis, analysis and reception history, and covers key topics including political context, dedication, sources of the Symphony's inspiration, 'heroism' and the idea of a 'watershed' work. Critical studies of writings and analyses from Beethoven's day to ours are included, as well as a range of other relevant responses to the work, including compositions, recordings, images and film. The Companion draws on previous literature but also illuminates the work from new angles, based on new evidence and a range of approaches by twelve leading scholars in Beethoven research.