I've been listening to Beethoven's 3rd (Eroica), Symphony, and his 9th Symphony which are just uber awesome.


I mean, this bitch could REALLY write!




But I've been told that Eroica, along with his later symphonies are widly credited for ushering in the "Romantic" movement in classical composing.


However, when I listen to widly acclaimed pieces of the Romantic era, I wouldn't be able to link them to either Eroica nor his 9th. What exactly distinguishes Romantic music?
Some of the compositions I've heard are sparse compared to the insanely layered and complex 9th.


Can someone break it down for me? Talk to me like I'm a child cause I know little to nothing about music theory.


Thanks!
[Edited 8/22/08 13:23pm]