| Abstract |
The music of Guillaume de Machaut, renowned French composer and poet, encompasses some of the most innovative works of the fourteenth century, including his famous Messe de Nostre Dame, the first polyphonic composition of all the movements of the Ordinary of the Mass. Friend of royalty, prelates, noted poets, and musicians, Machaut was a cosmopolitan presence in late medieval Europe. Yet we know little of his existence as a canon of the cathedral of Reims, where he spent the last four decades of his life. Here, in this ancient and influential archiepiscopal see, the coronation site of French kings, lies the context for many of his musical works: a context which provides glimmers into the question of meaning." "This exploration of Machaut's life and work focuses on his music based on cantus firmi: twenty-three motets, the David Hocket, and the Mass of Our Lady. Machaut informs us as to his artistic goals, encouraging us to look for what he calls "Scens," or "meaning." The meaning of his music is brought to light through study of its liturgical and ecclesiastical context in Reims, of the books and poetry found in the cathedral library, and of the royal associations of the church. Machaut emerges as a composer deeply involved in the great crises of his day, one who skillfully and artfully expresses profound themes of human existence in ardent music and poetry. |
