Expertlatin
- What is the meaning of Dies Irae Dies Illa?
- Why is Dies Irae so famous?
- Is Dies Irae a religious song?
What is the meaning of Dies Irae Dies Illa?
'Dies Irae' (literally, Day of Wrath) is a medieval Latin poem, and one of the most famous melodies of the Gregorian Chant. In its original form, it's a four-note melody describing Judgment Day, the Christian day when humanity will come before God to receive judgment.
Why is Dies Irae so famous?
It is best known from its use in the Roman Rite Requiem (Mass for the Dead or Funeral Mass). An English version is found in various Anglican Communion service books. The first melody set to these words, a Gregorian chant, is one of the most quoted in musical literature, appearing in the works of many composers.
Is Dies Irae a religious song?
Sung originally in the Christian Mass for the Dead, by the 19th century, the tune symbolized not only human mortality, but the forces of evil—sometimes in serious fashion, sometimes not. In this hour, the “Dies Irae” melody in works by Liszt, Berlioz, Saint-Saens, Rachmaninoff, and many more.
