The Literary Sources of the Secular Solo Songs by Henry Purcell in the Context of the Poetic Culture of England in the 17th Century

Main Article Content

Natalia V. Duda

Abstract

The article raises the question of the aesthetical signiicance of
the texts of Henry Purcell’s songs. Certain poetic movements in
17th century England are brought to light, namely, those connected
with the problematics of this research. Brief characterizations of
the works of a number of representatives of the world of poets
are provided, accompanied by some brilliant facts from their
biographies. The chief spheres of imagery of the literary sources
set to music by Purcell are examined. The conditional character
of the composer’s choice of text is demonstrated, as determined
by the main ethical and aesthetical paradigms of his surroundings,
the demands of the audiences, the established traditions and the
personal predilections of the “British Orpheus.” The question
is raised of interpreting the texts set to music in regards to
discoveries of direct analogies with antique poetry and works of
Shakespeare. As a proof of the self-worth of the literary sources
of Purcell’s songs mention is made of 20th century composers set
to the text of one of the works by the English master (“If music
be the food of love”).

Keywords: 17th century English poetry, Henry Purcell,
Abraham Cowley, English libertine poets, secular solo song,
Shakespeare

Article Details

How to Cite
Duda, N. V. (2015). The Literary Sources of the Secular Solo Songs by Henry Purcell in the Context of the Poetic Culture of England in the 17th Century. Music Scholarship / Problemy Muzykal’noj Nauki, (2), 94–99. https://doi.org/10.17674/1997-0854.2015.2.19.094-099
Section
Music in the System of Culture
Author Biography

Natalia V. Duda, Rostov State S. V. Rachmaninoff Conservatory

Post-graduate student at the Music Theory Department

References

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