How to get the most out of Beethoven's 1st and 3rd Symphonies?

I'm going to hear the TSO perform Beethoven's 1st and 3rd Symphonies in a few weeks. I don't know a whole heap about classical music. But as Montgomery Burns once said 'I don't know a lot about art, but I know what I hate... and I don't hate this'.

Actually I know I really like Beethoven's stuff. But I would to think this is a chance to do more than just 'like' Beethoven in a fashion mildly more intelligent than a Facebook 'like' button.

I'd like to learn to appreciate it. So, music buffs: any advice?

I've already borrowed a recording of these symphonies so I can get familiar with them in advance. Watch out workmates.