The Cambridge Companion to the Eroica Symphony

This Companion provides orientation for those embarking on the study of Beethoven''s much-discussed Eroica Symphony as well as providing fresh insights that will appeal to scholars performers and listeners more generally. The book addresses the symphony in three thematic sections on genesis analysis and reception history and covers key topics including political context dedication sources of the Symphony''s inspiration ''heroism'' and the idea of a ''watershed'' work. Critical studies of writings and analyses from Beethoven''s day to ours are included as well as a range of other relevant responses to the work including compositions recordings images and film. The Companion draws on previous literature but also illuminates the work from new angles based on new evidence and a range of approaches by twelve leading scholars in Beethoven research.