The central theme of the entire work is the Rota Fortunae (Wheel of Fortune), a medieval concept representing the fickle nature of luck and destiny.
The goddess Fortuna "spins" the wheel, causing some to rise to power while others fall into ruin. Carl Orff - O Fortuna Carmina Burana
By using "O Fortuna" as both the prologue and epilogue, Orff creates a musical "circle," mirroring the never-ending turn of the wheel. 10 Places You've Heard Carmina Burana - Erie Philharmonic The central theme of the entire work is
"O Fortuna" is a direct complaint to the goddess, comparing fate to the moon—constantly changing, waxing, and waning. Orff creates a musical "circle