What is the difference between a Motif and a leitmotif? any specific textual examples?

Answer 1

A motif is a recurring theme in a work. Ulysses would be a good example of this. A leitmotif is a recurring musical theme or character. The leitmotif is usually associated with Richard Wagner's operas.

Answer 2

In popular film, Williams used leitmotif in Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Watch starwars and see Princess Lea walk on camera and her leitmotif always accompanies her. Williams got this from late 19th century opera and music drama.

Motif is a general term for the smallest recognizable chunk of melodic material that often serves as the basis for development in a composition.

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