Ideology in Britten's Operas

This thematic examination of Britten's operas explores how ideology is presented on stage and continues to offer a diagnosis of unresolved problems in our own time. It argues that his operas have obscured a greater social and philosophical complicity that audiences in the early twenty-first century should address.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 345 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2020
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This in-depth exploration of Britten's operas delves into the compelling manner in which ideology is portrayed on stage. By engaging in either watching or listening to these artistic creations, audiences are transported into a vibrant testament to the ideological landscape of mid-twentieth-century Britain. However, this examination goes beyond mere entertainment, as Britten's operas also serve as a reflection of ongoing societal issues that remain unresolved in our contemporary times. While it is true that Britten occasionally challenges fundamental principles of his contemporary ideology, such as in Peter Grimes, which highlights the inherent violence within social and psychological identification, he does so sparingly. Nevertheless, some writers have sought to romanticize Britten as a quiet revolutionary, overlooking the deeper social and philosophical complicity that his operas conceal.

This book aims to challenge this romanticized perception by presenting a compelling argument. It suggests that Britten's operas, alongside certain interpretations of them, have obscured a more significant social and philosophical complicity that demands attention from his early twenty-first-century audiences. It is a timely and uncomfortable task, as it requires us to confront the complexities and nuances of our society and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Through a thematic analysis of Britten's operas, this book explores the ways in which ideology is presented on stage, highlighting the complexities and contradictions within contemporary society. It sheds light on the ways in which Britten's operas continue to resonate with audiences, offering a lens through which to examine our own times and the challenges we face. By delving into the social and philosophical implications of Britten's work, this book encourages a deeper understanding of the world around us and encourages us to engage in critical thought and reflection.

Weight: 606g
Dimension: 168 x 244 x 2 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108402873