In this insightful discussion, Charles King, a New York Times bestselling author and historian at Georgetown University, dives into the transformative power of Handel's Messiah. He reflects on finding hope amidst turmoil, drawing parallels between historic and contemporary struggles. King explores the connection between healing, community, and faith, while sharing poignant stories of redemption through music. He also highlights the philanthropic efforts tied to Handel's work and celebrates the enduring cultural significance of this timeless oratorio.
Charles King emphasizes that true faith can emerge during times of conflict, paralleling Handel's experiences with contemporary societal anxieties.
The emotional journey of Charles Jennens in creating the libretto for Messiah highlights how personal struggle can inspire profound creative expression and communal connection.
Deep dives
The Political Landscape of Handel's Time
Handel composed during a period of significant political division and unrest in Britain, which mirrored contemporary societal anxieties. The time was marked by substantial conflict over the legitimacy of the reigning monarchy and societal issues like disease and high infant mortality rates. This tumultuous atmosphere profoundly influenced both the creation of his music and the themes present in works like Handel's Messiah. Interestingly, Handel's situation resonates with today’s socio-political climate, highlighting a constant search for hope amid chaos.
The Role of Religion and Spirituality
Despite creating religious music, Handel's personal beliefs were complex and often ambiguous, reflecting a broader 18th-century perspective on faith. He initially approached religion through his work as a court composer rather than personal devotion. The libretto for Messiah, crafted by Charles Jennens, intertwined significant biblical passages with a yearning for spiritual depth amidst daily struggles. This blend of sacred text and the quest for hope is particularly relevant, as it speaks to the modern search for meaning during challenging times.
Charles Jennens and His Struggles
Charles Jennens, the librettist of Messiah, faced his own emotional turmoil, grappling with chronic depression and the tragic loss of his brother. He turned to scripture as a means of assembly for the text of Messiah, aiming to create a pathway from despair to hope. His story illustrates the enduring human experience of pain and longing for understanding, revealing how personal struggle can lead to profound creative expression. Jennens's journey underscores the theme of seeking comfort and connection, pivotal in both the music and communal resonance of the piece.
A Legacy of Community and Redemption
The performance and charitable associations of Handel's Messiah evolved significantly over time, especially through the Foundling Hospital's benefit concerts. These events not only brought awareness to child welfare but also highlighted the transformative power of music to foster community and compassion. Audiences, engaged by the music's emotional weight and ideas of redemption, often found themselves embodying the spirit of the performance in ways that surpassed mere listening. Today, the collaborative nature of Messiah invites reflection on collective grief and healing, making it a relevant experience for contemporary listeners.
It’s easy to become anxious and worried as we see war and conflict increase. However, it is precisely in these moments, says historian Charles King, that true faith can find its voice. Reflecting on geopolitics, domestic polarization, and the quest for hope in the midst of suffering, King—New York Times bestselling author of Every Valley: The Desperate Lives and Troubled Times That Made Handel’s Messiah—sits down with Clarissa Moll for a conversation about holding on to faith when life feels darkest.
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Music in this episode is courtesy of Calvin University’s 2021 Messiah production. Watch it here.
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ABOUT THE GUEST:
Charles King is the author of the New York Times–bestselling Gods of the Upper Air, which received the Francis Parkman Prize and the Anisfield-Wolf Award and was shortlisted for the National Book Critics Circle Award, the Los Angeles Times History Prize, and the British Academy’s Al-Rodhan Prize for Global Cultural Understanding. His other books include Odessa, winner of a National Jewish Book Award, and Midnight at the Pera Palace.
He is professor of international affairs and government at Georgetown University, where he has served as chair of both the department of government and the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service.
ABOUT THE BULLETIN:
The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today’s editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.