Opera

Day 2 of Art and Technology class was primarily based around opera and the influence it has had on culture and society worldwide.  The Baroque era was one that brought out music and performances that is still heard and used today.  Bach and Mozart were two extremely influential musicians we discussed.  

Movie clips from "Amadeus" were shown for a large portion of the class.  As one of my favorite movies, I was intrigued and extremely interested in what we learned of the film's historical contexts and social representations from that time period.  I found it extremely significant that Opera was to that time period, what films are viewed as today.  

The technology and deus ex machinae that was used in the operas we viewed in class was fascinating as well.  "Vatel" especially exemplified this with the overuse of elaborate fireworks and special effects.  

With the progression of time and excessive greediness on the part of the elite during the baroque and neo baroque era sparked a new form of popular entertainment for the common people.  This was also exhibited well in "Amadeus" and showed the immense socioeconomic division between people during this time period.

I truly have a newfound interest and respect for opera now and hope to see and learn more about this form of art and music in the future.