Question Hi,
Can you please tell me if the original language for Judas Maccabeus was English?
I would also like to know what this oratorio was based upon and what it is about?
I thank you in advance for your time.
Si Tannock.
Answer Hello Simon,
The original language of Judas Macabeus was English.
For a really learned dissertation you should consult Winton Dean's "Handel's Dramatic Oratorios and Masques" Clarendon Press.
The story tells of the revolt of the ancient Hebrews against the Syrian occupiers under Antiochus Epiphanes. The story is by Morrell and is based on biblical episodes including Milton's version of the psalms.
There is some relevance to the time of its composition (1745) to the threatened invasion of England by Prince Charles Edward and possible restoration of the Stuart monarchy so it is to some extent allegorical.
Hope this helps.
The Robert King recording on CDA66641/2 is very good
