Since the text of "Thou Shalt Break Them" is brief, how does Handel structure its melody?

Handel's approach to structuring the melody in "Thou Shalt Break Them" involves the use of a single, main tune that is developed throughout the piece. This method allows for a cohesive musical narrative, emphasizing the text in a way that is both powerful and memorable. By utilizing one primary melody, Handel effectively highlights the text’s brevity and intensity, ensuring that the listener's focus remains on the emotional weight of the words.

The choice of a singular, prominent tune is also significant in the context of Baroque music, where clarity and direct expression of the text were highly valued. This technique enables Handel to explore various expressive nuances within this one melody while maintaining a clear and direct connection to the thematic material of the piece.

In contrast, the other options introduce elements that are not present in this composition. For instance, extensive improvisation would distract from the structured nature of the piece, while multiple contrasting tunes would disrupt the focus on the central message. Similarly, varying accompaniment patterns, while important in other contexts, do not encapsulate the primary melodic structure that is evident in "Thou Shalt Break Them." Thus, the use of a single main tune supports the artistic intent of clarity and emphasis inherent in Handel's work.