Alexander Poulakis

The various letters written by/regarding Mozart depict him in one of three ways. The first, and most obvious, is as a virtuoso. A great deal of praise is given to him by the few letters from his father Leopold to his sister, regarding his successes with concerts (filling entire venues and crowds calling for encores) and operas (such as Figaro). Comments by the Archbishop and other prominent men, like this man Haydn, are mentioned as well, describing Mozart as “not bad” and “the greatest composer I know.” But along with fatherly praise, Mozart toots his own horn very often in his own letters. When writing to the high up figures in society, like the Archduke, Baron, and even Municipal Council, he writes of his notoriety throughout Europe and great skill with composition, the piano forte, etc. This presents outside readers with the idea that Mozart was very conceded and possibly even somewhat of a narcissist. He has no problem talking about himself, and even thinking about himself over others, as shown in his letter to the Municipal Council, writing that he should still be accepted as Kapellmeister regardless of that fact that the current Kapellmeister’s health began to improve and he can resume his position.

Along with narcissism, Mozart is also characterized as a user, and incapable of managing his wealth. There are numerous letters sent from him to Michael Puchberg (his “best friend”), where he, more often than not, asks for x amount of some currency, each time for a different reason. It seems like Mozart struggles a great deal, regardless of his proposed status of excellency. That begs the question: is Mozart terrible at managing his income, or is composing not a great source of income? Considering what he, his father, and others say about his concerts and operas, the later seems like it shouldn’t be the problem. Along with all this begging for cash, it doesn’t seem like he does the best job at paying back his loans – with some letters asking for an extension. It doesn’t appear that Mozart does anything to help out Puchberg either, making this relationship seem somewhat one sided.

Finally, Mozart is shown to be very caring regarding his family (except for his sister, whom he seems to have some tension with). He writes to his father concerning his health and Mozart’s progress, but more specifically writes to his wife many times. He seems to deeply love her, and his concern for her health is displayed not only in letters to her, but letters to Puchberg (although that may just be a method used to increase his chance of more money). He always tells her what he’s doing, planning on doing, and describes to her how much he loves her. In each of his letters to his wife, he’d also ask of his kids, checking in on their progress, and asking that his love for them is given to them even at such great distances apart. He seems to really appreciate having them in his life, for their love and support. Without that he probably wouldn’t be where he got to.