Significant and Meaning for a Metaphysics of the Night

Musical Suggestions in the European Eighteenth Century

Abstract

The night has always been a reason for investigation since the origins of humanity. Over the centuries we have witnessed philo-theosophical speculations on the origin of the universe: from the eternal night to the contrast with light. The night is a symbol of darkness, of evil, of the past, of origins, but also of the one who allows perfect balance with the world of light, which allows you to re-establish contact with the absolute up to calming souls by constituting the moment of stillness before sleep. It’s a prelude to the day and therefore during the night we prepare ourselves for a metaphysical world where reason loses its concreteness to abandon itself to the unknown. An unknown who in the eighteenth century and above all in the musical field goes from being fearful to a delightful and festive moment. The night loses its negative characterization and becomes a moment of reflection and pleasure. Vivaldi’s program music and Mozart's serenade are just a few examples.