Second Movement: A-flat Major, 2/4 time, Scherzo (Sonata Form)

This scherzo movement is in 2/4 time, and its musical structure follows sonata form.

Exposition

The main theme, with its sf accent placed on the off-beat of the second beat, indicates that this movement is a 'scherzo' (or 'scherzando') in character. The distinctive repeated notes at the end of the theme, occurring amidst tempo changes of poco ritardando and a tempo, can be understood as one of the elements common to Op. 31 that cause the music to momentarily stagnate.

Following the statement of the main theme (m. 20–), and a transition (m. 35–) characterized by the rhythm of repeated notes and lively unison passages, the subordinate theme (m. 50–) appears in the dominant key (E-flat major). Once the subordinate theme is briefly presented, a short coda (m. 58–) is introduced without further development or transition.

Development and Recapitulation

The development section (m. 64–) begins with the main theme in F major. After an intervening transitional motive, the main theme reappears, this time in C major, but quickly transitions into an ornamental passage, preparing for the recapitulation (m. 106–). This recapitulation, in contrast to the first movement, presents both themes in the tonic key, bringing the movement to a concise close.