Medieval Song from Aristotle to Opera

Medieval Song from Aristotle to Opera explores the diversity of medieval French and Occitan songs, reimagining them as works that are as much desired and imagined as they are sung and heard. It draws inspiration from opera, arguing for a perspective on the manuscripts that transmit medieval song as instances of multimedia, quasi-operatic performances.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Cornell University Press

Medieval Song from Aristotle to Opera delves into the realm of songs by the troubadours and trouvères from the twelfth to the fourteenth centuries, offering a fresh perspective on the art form. Rather than merely considering songs as a combination of words and music, the book proposes that they be analyzed as a unique mode of vocal expression. Author Sarah Kay takes a captivating approach by listening for and tracing crosscurrents between medieval French and Occitan songs, as well as comparing them to earlier poetry and much later opera. By focusing on the songlike quality of these compositions, Kay reimagines the diverse range of songs from this period, including inset lyrics in medieval French narratives and the works of Guillaume de Machaut. She views songs as desired and imagined entities, as much as they are physically sung and heard.

Kay's understanding of song extends beyond mere words and music, encompassing breath, constellations, the animal soul, and the essence of life itself. Her method draws inspiration from opera, particularly those that creatively recreate medieval song. She advocates for a perspective on medieval song manuscripts as instances of multimedia, quasi-operatic performances.

Medieval Song from Aristotle to Opera features a companion website (cornellpress.manifoldapp.org/projects/medieval-song) that serves as a rich resource for readers. The website hosts twenty-four audio or video recordings, realized by professional musicians specializing in early music. These recordings feature pieces discussed in the book, accompanied by performance scores, performance reflections, and translations of all recorded texts. These audiovisual materials not only enhance the reader's understanding of the sung dimension of medieval song but also provide a practical extension of the research aims of the book.

In conclusion, Medieval Song from Aristotle to Opera offers a captivating exploration of the world of medieval song, challenging traditional perspectives and offering a fresh, interdisciplinary approach. Through her meticulous research and innovative methodology, Kay provides a deeper understanding of the songs by the troubadours and trouvères, their influences, and their enduring legacy. The companion website enhances the reading experience by offering audiovisual materials that further enrich our appreciation of this rich musical tradition.

Weight: 28g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501763885