• Redeeming the Betrayer: Elgar's Portrayal of Judas in 'The Apostles'

    Author(s):
    Ryan Taycher (see profile)
    Date:
    2013
    Subject(s):
    Musical analysis, Music theory
    Item Type:
    Thesis
    Institution:
    University of North Texas
    Tag(s):
    Edward Elgar, Schenkerian analysis, Music analysis
    Permanent URL:
    http://dx.doi.org/10.17613/M6VT1GP5Q
    Abstract:
    Despite its generally agreed importance, very little has been written about 'The Apostles.' Even among the extant publications that address 'The Apostles,' scholars have focused on its history and development, its reception, or analytical descriptions of its surface themes. The aim of this study will therefore be to provide neither a biography of Elgar, nor an account of the genesis of the work, but to analyze 'The Apostles' in a manner that will achieve a deeper understanding of the oratorio. Chapter 1 explores the complexities that surround Judas and the different ways in which he was perceived throughout history. Then, through my analysis of the surface motives in Chapter 2 and their significance in relation to the large-scale harmonic structure in Chapter 3, I will suggest that Elgar does not denigrate Judas as the betrayer of Christ in 'The Apostles,' but rather depicts him as a tragic yet crucial figure in achieving the redemption of mankind, and through this Judas himself is redeemed.
    Metadata:
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    Status:
    Published
    Last Updated:
    5 years ago
    License:
    All Rights Reserved
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