From this we might almost
be led to imagine some truth in the theory that the ancients had
different scales peculiar to their different moods: a theory which,
however impossible it may be considered, is not without its advocates,
who will perhaps not be displeased to find here some slight confirmation
of their opinions. Yet in these songs the prevailing character of the
minor key may generally be detected, which, from its being imperfect,
and probably vitiated by the mistakes of these rustic melodists, may
give a colour to the notion of a change in the scale.
The great antiquity of these melodies is unquestionable, and it would be
an interesting inquiry to trace them back through remote ages, perhaps
to the Jewish temple and the tent of the patriarchs. The author has
found in them a strong resemblance to the Hebrew music, sounds which,
since the captivity of the Jews in Babylon, and the destruction of their
temple, 606 B.C., and in consequence of musical instruments being
afterwards forbidden, they have clung to with increased tenacity,
preserving their ancient melodies, and bequeathing them by memory from
one generation to another with the same jealous care that a miser would
his treasure, and as the last melancholy relics of a "kingdom passed
away.
Pages:
556
557
558
559
560
561
562
563
564
565
566
567
568
569
570
571
572
573
574
575
576
577
578
579
580