Page 29

Ex. 27

At measure 248, Beethoven elevates the struggle to conflict with an extended passage of rhythmic and harmonic ferocity, drawing it out in repeated statements without release. When the climax is finally reached, we are presented with four bars of the most bone chilling chord in all of music.  A single beat of silence precedes the relief that follows, a brief moment of calm that one commentator has referred to as being so eloquent as to form a pivotal point in the movement.  This entire passage is pure Beethoven.

       


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