Example 9

Example 9. Motivic and tonal summary of the Love Duet complex in Act II, Scene 2 of Tristan und Isolde, which will furnish the basis for the subsequent "recollection of memories" sections during the following scene and in Act III. The key of Ab major forms the referential center for the three duets, which are linked by similar material. The music shifts to B major during the final duet, whose climax is interrupted by the intrusion of Marke's entourage.