Here comes the second theme...a very calm, lyrical and legato melody. What a contrast!
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The second theme brings forth a feeling of relaxation, quite in contrast to the almost frenzied excitement which accompanied the first theme.
It opens with a 4-bar melody which is repeated three times: first by the 1st violins, then by the clarinets, and finally by the 1st violins and flutes.
If you take a look at this short pronouncement, you will notice how Beethoven balances between the two ascending paces and the two descending ones which follow.
The second theme is contrasted with the first one in almost all its elements. But, if you listen very carefully you will be able to perceive how the "Fate" motive mutters away beneath the end of each of the three 4-bar melodies. It is played by the lower strings (cellos and double basses).
