The focus of the present research is to examine Johann Sebastian Bach's (1685-1750) use of augmented sixth chords in the Symbolum Nicenum portion of his Mass in B Minor, BWV 232, as structural and theological unifying factors. Previous scholarly research has focused on other composers' settings of the Crucifixus text and detailed the conventions of chromatic harmony that many have incorporated in their works. Analysis of Bach's works dealing with Christ's crucifixion indicates that Bach was aware of both the augmented sixth chord and the conventions such a chord provided in service of Affekt. Further investigation of Bach's placement of these augmented sixth chords in the Symbolum Nicenum suggests that he intended to emphasize specific theological arguments presented in Martin Luther's (1483-1546) Ein Sermon von der Betrachtung des heiligen Leidens Christi ("A Sermon of Meditation on Christ's Holy Passion") written in 1519. In analyzing J.S. Bach's usage of augmented sixth chords in the Symbolum Nicenum, one recognizes his use of this sonority in service of Affekt for Christ's crucifixion related to Lutheran Passion theology.

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Most studies of the Mass in B Minor deal with the history of the work, its reception history, primary sources, performance practice issues, rhetoric, and even theological and numerical symbolism. However, little research focuses on an in-depth analysis of the music itself. Of the few analytical studies undertaken, to date only a limited number attempt to explain Bach's use of parody technique or unity in the whole composition. This thesis focuses on understanding three primary concerns in regards to the Mass in B minor: to comprehend how preexistent material was adapted to the context of the Mass, how this material functions in the network of the entire composition, and how unity is achieved by means of large-scale voice leading. The results of this study not only provide new information about this monument of Western music, but also provide insight to the deep sense of large-scale structure in Bach's work.