2-3. Comfort Ye My Peopleevery Valley Shall Be Exalted Вђ” Handel Вђ” Messiah - Вђ” Score-

: Handel breaks traditional recitative rules by making the vocal line highly lyrical and songlike, which reinforces the "comforting" nature of the text.

: Proclamation that Jerusalem's "warfare is accomplished" and iniquity is pardoned. : Handel breaks traditional recitative rules by making

: It is through-composed and organized into three main sections based on the text from Isaiah 40:1-3: Section 1 : God’s command to "comfort" his people. This movement is a , meaning the singer

This movement is a , meaning the singer is supported by the full string section rather than just a harpsichord. This movement is a

Following the somber E-minor Overture, George Frideric Handel’s Messiah (1741) opens the vocal narrative with a dramatic shift to , signaling a transition from darkness to divine promise. Movements 2 and 3 form a cohesive pair—an accompanied recitative followed by an air—that introduces the tenor soloist as a prophetic herald of the coming savior. 1. Movement No. 2: "Comfort ye my people" (Accompagnato)

Following the recitative without a break, this (or Aria) is characterized by its "peppy" and anticipatory energy. Workbook Pages Answer Book pages More Detailed Analyses