Bach and the Riddle of the Number Alphabet

• In 1947 the musicologist and theologian Friedrich Smend (1893-1980) published the first of four studies theorizing that Bach regularly used the natural-order number alphabet (A=1 to Z=24) in order to employ a type of number-word symbolism in his works. Tatlow investigates the plausibility of Smend's claims. Her new evidence fundamentally challeges Smend's conclusions and the book sounds a note of caution to all who continue to use his number alphabet theory.

Ämnesord

HUMANIORA  -- Konst -- Musikvetenskap (hsv//swe)

HUMANITIES  -- Arts -- Musicology (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Bach

Number alphabet

Germanistics

Baroque literature

Music

Musikvetenskap

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