Stories of the Wagner Opera

'Stories of the Wagner Opera' is a comprehensive guide to the dramatic narratives and mythical underpinnings of Richard Wagner’s most celebrated compositions. Written by H. A. Guerber, an acclaimed author of folklore and legends, this work provides detailed and evocative summaries of Wagner’s revolutionary musical dramas, making them accessible to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.The book covers the complete scope of Wagner’s major output, including the seafaring legend of 'The Flying Dutchman,' the chivalric tales of 'Lohengrin' and 'Tannhäuser,' and the profound philosophical depths of 'Tristan and Isolde.' Significant attention is given to the monumental four-opera cycle, 'The Ring of the Nibelung,' as well as the composer’s final masterpiece, 'Parsifal.' Guerber focuses on the plot, character development, and the traditional Germanic and Norse sources that Wagner transformed into his innovative Gesamtkunstwerk.By highlighting the thematic complexity and emotional intensity of these works, this volume serves as an essential literary companion to the operatic stage. It emphasizes the historical and cultural significance of Wagner’s librettos, providing readers with the necessary context to appreciate the artistic vision of one of the most influential figures in music history.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.