Music of Tragedy: Performance and Imagination in Euripidean Theater

The Music of Tragedy offers a new approach to the study of classical Greek theater by examining the use of musical language, imagery, and performance in the late work of Euripides. Naomi Weiss demonstrates that Euripides' allusions to music-making are closely interwoven with the dramatic plot, reinventing traditional lyric styles and motifs for the tragic stage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2017
Publisher: University of California Press

The Music of Tragedy presents a groundbreaking approach to the study of classical Greek theater by delving into the intricate interplay of musical language, imagery, and performance in the late works of Euripides. In her insightful analysis, Naomi Weiss reveals that Euripides' allusions to music-making are far more than mere metatheatrical embellishments or gestures towards external musical and religious practices. Rather, they are intricately woven into the fabric of the dramatic plot, creating a rich tapestry of meaning and emotion. By situating Euripides' exploration of the dramaturgical effects of mousike within a broader cultural context, Weiss demonstrates how he revolutionized traditional lyric styles and motifs for the tragic stage. This innovative approach not only adds depth and complexity to his works but also sheds light on the trajectories of this significant ancient art form. To fully comprehend the nuances and complexities of classical Greek theater, The Music of Tragedy compellingly argues, we must pay close attention to the harmonious collaboration between music and text.

The Music of Tragedy offers a fresh perspective on the study of classical Greek theater by exploring the use of musical language, imagery, and performance in the later works of Euripides.

Naomi Weiss argues that Euripides' references to music-making are not merely decorative or symbolic but are deeply intertwined with the dramatic storyline.

She demonstrates that Euripides' experimentation with musical elements is not limited to mere metatheatrical gestures but rather forms an essential part of his theatrical vision.

By placing Euripides' exploration of music within a broader cultural context, Weiss highlights how he reimagined traditional lyric styles and motifs for the tragic stage, creating a unique and innovative theatrical experience.

Understanding the role of music and text in classical Greek theater requires a close examination of The Music of Tragedy, as it sheds light on the intricate interplay between these two artistic elements and contributes to our deeper understanding of this important ancient art form.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 161 x 235 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520295902