Composer

:

Hortus deliciarum Anonymous

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:39

'Sol oritur occasus nescius' is a medieval Latin hymn composed by an anonymous author from the 12th century. The hymn is part of the Hortus Deliciarum, a manuscript created by Herrad of Landsberg, a nun from the Hohenburg Abbey in Alsace, France. The manuscript was completed in 1180 and contained various texts, illustrations, and music. The hymn 'Sol oritur occasus nescius' is a monophonic chant that was likely performed by a choir of nuns. It consists of three movements, each with its own distinct melody and text. The first movement begins with the words "Sol oritur" (the sun rises) and is characterized by a rising melody that reflects the rising of the sun. The second movement begins with the words "Occasus nescius" (the sun sets unknowingly) and is characterized by a descending melody that reflects the setting of the sun. The third movement brings the two melodies together and ends with the words "In aeternum" (forever). The hymn's text is a meditation on the cyclical nature of life and death, as represented by the rising and setting of the sun. The author reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death, but also finds comfort in the idea of eternal life. The hymn's melody and text work together to create a sense of contemplation and reflection, inviting the listener to meditate on the mysteries of life and death. Overall, 'Sol oritur occasus nescius' is a beautiful example of medieval Latin hymnody, characterized by its simple yet profound melody and text. Its inclusion in the Hortus Deliciarum speaks to its importance as a piece of religious and cultural history, and its continued performance and study today is a testament to its enduring beauty and significance.

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