How is Purcell's music characteristic of the Baroque period?
Purcell's music features ornaments such as trills and mordents in bars 8 and 11. These are typical of the Baroque period, as are the melismas used in bars 12 and 16 which are used to emphasise the importance of the words. There is a continuous rhythmic drive in the harpsichord part and a homophonic texture of a melody with chordal harmony, both of which are characteristic of Baroque music. Purcell uses block dynamics (abrupt changes from forte to piano) and also repeats, showing that this piece is a perfect example of the Baroque style.
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