Composer

:

Peter Abelard

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

10:32

"Dolorum Solatium" is a medieval hymn composed by Peter Abelard, a French philosopher, theologian, and composer. The hymn was written in the 12th century and is believed to have been composed during Abelard's time as the abbot of the Abbey of Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys in Brittany, France. The hymn is a sequence, which is a type of liturgical poem that is sung during the Mass between the Alleluia and the Gospel. "Dolorum Solatium" is a sequence for the Feast of the Holy Innocents, which is celebrated on December 28th. The Feast of the Holy Innocents commemorates the massacre of the young male children in Bethlehem by King Herod, as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew. The hymn is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a lament for the innocent children who were killed by Herod. The second movement is a prayer for the souls of the children, asking for their intercession and for God's mercy. The third movement is a celebration of the children's martyrdom and their place in heaven. The first movement is characterized by its mournful melody and lyrics. Abelard uses vivid imagery to describe the horror of the massacre, such as "the sword that pierced the tender flesh" and "the wailing of the mothers." The second movement is more hopeful, with a melody that rises and falls in a gentle, soothing rhythm. The lyrics ask for the children's intercession and for God's mercy, with lines such as "O holy Innocents, pray for us" and "Grant us, O Lord, the grace to follow in their footsteps." The third movement is the most joyful, with a lively melody and lyrics that celebrate the children's martyrdom and their place in heaven. Abelard uses phrases such as "the palm of victory" and "the crown of glory" to describe the children's reward in heaven. The hymn ends with a triumphant chorus, "Alleluia," which is repeated three times. Overall, "Dolorum Solatium" is a powerful and moving hymn that captures the tragedy and hope of the Feast of the Holy Innocents. Abelard's use of vivid imagery and contrasting melodies creates a powerful emotional impact that has resonated with listeners for centuries.

More....