The Doctrine of Affections was key in musical development in the 17th century. Basically, it encompasses several “humors” of humankind and attempts to cause these emotions through music. A lot had already been accomplished through Medieval and Renaissance music…musical styles had become more complex and virtuosity had made its mark. The focus turned from the artists and performers to the audience with the development of affect. Rene Descartes expressed that “emotions and passions arise from the power of external impulses acting on the human body and the human mind.” This is enacted trough tempo, tone color, instrumentation, etc. Baroque works are typically based on a single affect maintained through an entire movement. Arias from baroque operas and oratorios are clear in expressing affect. Handel is one of the most famous Baroque composers who is responsible for many early operas. Included in these are Joshua and Hercules, each of which has arias with strong affect.
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