Beethoven's 9 Symphonies are one of the threads which trace the development of his music throughout his career. We will consider the world into which Beethoven was born, in both its musical and its historical contexts, and assess the ways in which the Symphonies reflected and influenced the evolution of European music and society during and after his lifetime. Technical terminology will be kept to a minimum, and there will be the opportunity to discuss the impact and meanings that the works convey.