The Mozart family

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The family into which Mozart was born has not been rigorously studied in terms of its complex relationships and interactions in Salzburg. Many biographies overlook significant passages in the family's correspondence that do not directly pertain to Mozart. This work draws on neglected material, much of which is untranslated into English, focusing on letters and lesser-known archival documents from the Berchtold family, into which Mozart's sister Nannerl married. By providing context about local history, particularly the working conditions at court, it situates the hopes and fears of the Mozarts within their social environment. The book offers a sympathetic portrayal of Mozart's family members, emphasizing how their lives were shaped by their connection to him. It reinterprets key events in Mozart's life against the backdrop of familial expectations and improves the understanding of source material. Ruth Halliwell challenges previous perceptions of family dynamics, especially regarding Leopold, and introduces a variety of characters from their Salzburg circle. The final section examines the roles of Nannerl and Constanze in managing biographical sources after Mozart's death, detailing their interactions with publishers and early biographers. This exploration sheds light on the characters of both women and how early myths about Mozart emerged.