Robert Saxton: Caritas

Nonfiction, Entertainment, Music, Music Styles, Classical & Opera, Opera
Cover of the book Robert Saxton: Caritas by Wyndham Thomas, Taylor and Francis
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Wyndham Thomas ISBN: 9781351217606
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Publication: September 29, 2017
Imprint: Routledge Language: English
Author: Wyndham Thomas
ISBN: 9781351217606
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication: September 29, 2017
Imprint: Routledge
Language: English

Caritas relates the 'true', yet largely undocumented story of Christine Carpenter, a 14th-century anchoress who moves towards insanity as her desire for a divine revelation continues to be unfulfilled after a period of three years locked in her cell. Although physically isolated, she is aware of the worldly life and love that she has abandoned. The very essence of the drama is the dogmatic refusal of her Bishop to release her from her vows. Set against the backcloth of the Peasants' Uprising (1381), the libretto/play juxtaposes sacred and secular worlds, the relative power and servitude of rulers and serfs, and the terrifying ordeal of Christine who is caught between the inflexibility of the established church and her personal religious expectations. Such a narrative was to offer rich opportunities for musical characterization and evocation of the historical context of the action, as well as substantial challenges in pacing and integrating the sequence of dramatic 'snap-shots' that culminate in a scene of total despair. The colourful juxtaposition of secular life and that of a recluse in Act One culminates in a Second Act finale of immense dramatic power in which Saxton's vocal and instrumental writing reaches new heights - a landmark both in his output and in late 20th century opera. Caritas - first performed in 1991 - occupies an important position in Robert Saxton's output and, as Thomas argues, in British opera during the closing decades of the 20th century. Thomas provides a detailed contextual setting in which to evaluate Caritas, as well as presenting an analytical commentary on the structure, musical language, instrumentation, staging and production of the opera. Thomas concludes with a reflection on the reception of Caritas as well as looking forward to Saxton's later and future works. A CD of the first performance is included.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Caritas relates the 'true', yet largely undocumented story of Christine Carpenter, a 14th-century anchoress who moves towards insanity as her desire for a divine revelation continues to be unfulfilled after a period of three years locked in her cell. Although physically isolated, she is aware of the worldly life and love that she has abandoned. The very essence of the drama is the dogmatic refusal of her Bishop to release her from her vows. Set against the backcloth of the Peasants' Uprising (1381), the libretto/play juxtaposes sacred and secular worlds, the relative power and servitude of rulers and serfs, and the terrifying ordeal of Christine who is caught between the inflexibility of the established church and her personal religious expectations. Such a narrative was to offer rich opportunities for musical characterization and evocation of the historical context of the action, as well as substantial challenges in pacing and integrating the sequence of dramatic 'snap-shots' that culminate in a scene of total despair. The colourful juxtaposition of secular life and that of a recluse in Act One culminates in a Second Act finale of immense dramatic power in which Saxton's vocal and instrumental writing reaches new heights - a landmark both in his output and in late 20th century opera. Caritas - first performed in 1991 - occupies an important position in Robert Saxton's output and, as Thomas argues, in British opera during the closing decades of the 20th century. Thomas provides a detailed contextual setting in which to evaluate Caritas, as well as presenting an analytical commentary on the structure, musical language, instrumentation, staging and production of the opera. Thomas concludes with a reflection on the reception of Caritas as well as looking forward to Saxton's later and future works. A CD of the first performance is included.

More books from Taylor and Francis

Cover of the book The Byzantine Achievement (Routledge Revivals) by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Studies in the Theory of International Trade by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Leading Issues in Black Political Economy by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Essential Skills for Managers of Child-Centred Settings by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Family Therapy for Adolescent Eating and Weight Disorders by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Society and Politics in Wilhelmine Germany (Routledge Revivals) by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book The United States and Mexico by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book The Political Economy of Natural Gas by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book The Politics of Apolitical Culture by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Broadway by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Mathematizing Your School by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Managing Professional Identities by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Maid In China by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Humor and Children's Development by Wyndham Thomas
Cover of the book Communication Yearbook 29 by Wyndham Thomas
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy