Final answer:
In Baroque music, 'affections' refers to the emotional states or moods that the music intends to evoke, aligning with the emotionally expressive style of the Baroque era in the arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Baroque music, affections refer to emotional states or moods that the music is intended to evoke or represent. This concept was essential to Baroque composers, who sought to convey specific feelings through their compositions. The use of affections was tied to the belief that music had the power to influence the emotions and character of the listener, a view that was widely accepted in the Baroque era.
The idea behind affections in music is aligned with the overall styles of the Baroque era in the arts, which included painting, sculpture, and architecture. The era is known for its emotionally expressive and dramatic approach, with artists like Bernini and Caravaggio utilizing intense light contrasts and theatrical gestures to evoke strong emotional responses. Similarly, Baroque music uses a combination of melody, harmony, and rhythm to reflect the complexity and intensity of human emotions.
While the term 'affections' may also have broader meanings, such as doctrines or behaviors, in the context of Baroque music, it is clearly associated with D. Emotional states or moods of music.