Alban Berg’s Operas Interpreted via Pierre Bourdieu’s Social Theory

Abstract

In an effort to present a new context of engagement between Berg and the culture of his time and space, Pierre Bourdieu’s social theories of habitus and field are applied to create a unique understanding of social influences that motivated Berg to compose his operas Wozzeck and Lulu. This article investigates the narrative symbolisms found in the two operas as they reflect Berg’s experiences in Vienna and the prevailing public interpretations of Viennese society at the time. Bourdieu’s theoretical framework illustrates the parodying nature of the operas, both of which mirror hypocritical and subversive elements of Vienna’s identity of place.