A Poetics of Handel's Operas

A Poetics of Handel's Operas examines the relationship between an onstage performance and the story it tells, proposing that distinguishing between the performance and the story offers a meaningful approach to engaging with and interpreting the work. Link's analysis combines theoretical studies on opera and narratological theories of literature, drama, and film to provide a rich engagement with Handel's work and its conveyance of the relationship between text, story, and performance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

A Poetics of Handel's Operas delves into the intricate relationship between an onstage performance and the story it tells. By examining the narratives of Handel's operas in the context of the rich representational fabric employed to convey them, the book explores this question. Nathan Link observes that in most storytelling genres, the audience can easily distinguish between the story itself and the way it is represented. For instance, in film, the viewer can discern that a character does not hear her own voiceover or the ambient music that accompanies it. However, in discussions of opera, some audiences may be distracted by the seemingly artificial nature of conventions such as characters singing their dialogue. Link proposes that when engaging with opera, it is important to distinguish between the performance we see and hear on the stage and the story represented. This approach offers a meaningful way to engage with and interpret Handel's work.

Handel's operas stand as the most-performed works in the Baroque opera seria tradition, renowned for their intricate dramaturgy and esoteric conventions. This genre stands to gain significant insights from an investigation into the relationships between the onstage performance and the story to which it directs us. In his analysis, Link offers theoretical studies on opera and narratological theories of literature, drama, and film, providing a deep engagement with Handel's work and its portrayal of the relationship between text, story, and performance.

The book explores the ways in which Handel's operas utilize various representational techniques to convey their narratives. It examines the use of music, staging, costume design, and acting to create a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience. Link argues that by analyzing these elements, we can gain a deeper understanding of the story being told and the themes and messages that Handel intended to convey.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the power of music to shape and influence the narrative. Link argues that Handel's operas use music not only to provide a backdrop for the action but also to convey emotions, themes, and characters. He examines the use of leitmotifs, recurring musical themes that represent specific characters, ideas, or emotions, and how they contribute to the development of the story.

The book also explores the role of staging in creating a sense of drama and tension in an opera. Link argues that the staging of an opera is crucial in conveying the story and the characters' emotions. He examines the use of set design, lighting, and movement to create a visual representation of the story and to evoke the desired emotional response from the audience.

Costume design is another important element of an opera's representational fabric. Link argues that the costumes worn by the characters can convey a wealth of information about their personalities, backgrounds, and relationships. He examines the use of color, texture, and style to create a visual representation of the characters and to contribute to the overall narrative.

Acting is another crucial element of an opera's representational fabric. Link argues that the actors' performances can convey a wealth of information about the characters and their emotions. He examines the use of facial expressions, body language.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197651346