Articulation, Elision, and Ambiguity in Schubert's Mature Sonata Forms: The Op. 99 Trio Finale in Its Context

Abstract

340 ILhe history of Schubert's recapitulations is yet to be written. Although scholars have discussed his recapitulations at length and in particular have identified and examined a variety of eccentric recapitulatory practices,' two tasks of reappraisal stand between us and the needed comprehensive view of this aspect of Schubert's work. First, we must recognize the isolated categories of unusual practices as part of a single larger issue, namely Schubert's persistent search for a satisfactory approach to problems of formal closure. Second, it is essential to broaden our discussion of sonata form, acknowledging the strong role played by Schubert's recapitulatory concerns in shaping many of the uncategorizable, so-called problematic movements which are frequently overlooked in discussions of sonata form.