Das Verhältnis geschriebener und gesprochener Sprache im 18. Jahrhundert am Beispiel der Interpunktion in Sprache und Musik

Abstract The oral realization of written punctuation basically brings two parameters into play: rhythm and intonation. The former is visualized in writing the typeface by a space, while the latter is determined by conventions and depends on the speaker’s personal means of expression. In the 18th century, the oral realization of punctuation was only marginally addressed in grammars. Additional sources can be found in the area of music history, because the music theorists of the 18th century discussed the connection between language and music with great interest. In this essay, prosodic models for the oral (audible) realization of punctuation marks are examined by comparing the current prosodic description of German with the musical analyses of Johann Mattheson and the remarks in the grammars of his time. Then baroque music examples are examined from the point of view of the possibility of refining the theoretical models. The aim of this interdisciplinary approach is to make use of ancient sources, both theoretical and practical, for the reconstruction of the prosody of 18th century German.