In the time-line depicted in the film (1813 - 1819), Ludwig van Beethoven is at the height of his fame. As an internationally recognized composer, his work is widely played and greatly celebrated by the public - but, his domestic circumstances are nevertheless depressing.
His hearing continually deteriorates until finally he becomes totally deaf, and also his relationship with his two brothers is exceedingly strained: Johann and Karl could never really understand their brilliant brother, and Ludwig held his two brothers in contempt because of their petty bourgeois airs. And finally, not only Beethoven’s constant shortage of money of his "undying love” anguished and depressed him. As Beethoven did not attempt to hide his deeply ingrained democratic beliefs, the reactionary Metternich regime’s spies constantly monitored his every move.
Beethoven’s problems were compounded by his unruly temperament as well as his deafness which caused him to be even more mistrustful - indeed, he often felt misunderstood even by his friends. Beethoven, in a fatherly manner, was fondly attached to his nephew Karl, to whom he finally dedicates his life. Beethoven also found consolatory joy and inspiration in the beauty of nature. And now we finally see Beethoven, in concert with the music from the 9th Symphony which is being created - once again, he’s on the lookout for a new flat - as he moves out of his historical epoch into ours.
Please RSVP to JOH-Learngerman@goethe.de by 26 October 2018.
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