The Lives of George Frideric Handel by David Hunter

Author:David Hunter [Hunter, David]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781782047308
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Group Ltd

CHAPTER 6

Self and Health

A new and more complex picture of Handel is starting to emerge: cautious, especially where money is concerned; sensitive, not only about his great talent but also concerning his weaknesses; and stubborn, with a propensity to endanger himself rather than conciliate. Each of these character traits will be evident as we assess Handel’s sense of self and his relationships with the persons who regarded themselves or whom we consider as his friends. To gain and maintain the status ‘friend of Handel’ was neither easy nor without peril.

Handel’s relationship with his parents and what that may or may not tell us about his life as an adult provides our start. After that we will consider his genetic inheritance in terms of his body and the changes it underwent, along with his acute and chronic illnesses and their causes. Following that, his ‘social affections’, as Hawkins politely calls them, with both women and men, will be examined. Handel’s inability to maintain certain friendships will be remarked. Then the elements of his character such as violent temper, swearing, piety, charity, and an interest in visual art will be scrutinized. Lastly, two pet themes of biographers – the opportunistic and independent Handels – will be tested for accuracy and validity.

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