Melodics in Romantic Music Theory: The Integration of Cultural Context and Theory

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between the cultural context of the Romantic era and the development of melodic theory in music. Focusing on the late 18th to mid-19th century, a period marked by significant social, technological, and artistic transformations, the research examines how the cultural backdrop of Romanticism influenced the theory and practice of melody in this period’s music. The study explores the ways in which Romantic ideals, such as emotional intensity, individualism, and a fascination with the natural world, manifested in melodic structures. Through an analysis of specific melodic techniques employed by Romantic composers, including Frédéric Chopin and Franz Liszt, the research aims to demonstrate how the cultural milieu of the Romantic era provided a fertile ground for the development of a unique and expressive melodic vocabulary. By tracing the roots of these techniques back to the cultural and philosophical underpinnings of the era, the study reveals the profound influence of Romanticism on musical theory and practice, underscoring the enduring legacy of this era in the history of music.