Schoenberg and Redemption

This book explores Schoenberg's transition to atonality, linking it to Wagner's critiques of Jewish influence in German music, offering new insights into his revolutionary contributions.

In Schoenberg and Redemption, Julie Brown offers a fresh perspective on Arnold Schoenberg's pivotal shift into atonality in 1908. By reexamining his early atonal compositions, theoretical writings, and previously untapped archival materials, she posits that Schoenberg's groundbreaking move was, in part, a reaction to Richard Wagner's negative assertions regarding Jewish influence in German music. This exploration delves into the complexities of Schoenberg's Jewish identity and its interplay with his dedication to Wagnerian modernism, which fueled his artistic innovations during a critical period.

Brown highlights the significant cultural and ideological contexts of late 19th and early 20th century Vienna, drawing connections between Schoenberg's work and the ideas of Viennese philosopher Otto Weininger, an influential figure who shared Wagner's views. By situating Schoenberg's atonal works within this framework, the author sheds light on the broader implications of his music and the motivations behind his radical departure from traditional tonality. This examination also reveals how Schoenberg's ideological stance evolved, particularly during the late 1920s and early 1930s, when the discourse surrounding the redemption of German culture took on new meanings.

Ultimately, Schoenberg and Redemption invites readers to reconsider the motivations behind Schoenberg's revolutionary contributions to music, suggesting that his artistic choices were deeply intertwined with the cultural tensions of his time. Brown's meticulous research and insightful analysis provide a nuanced understanding of Schoenberg's legacy and the enduring impact of his work on the landscape of modern music.