| Contents |
Part one: Approaching Wagner. Welcome to the art of Richard Wagner ; The strangle life and career of Richard Wagner ; Richard Wagner, superstar ; Map of places in Wagner's life ; Map of places in Wagner's operas -- Part two: The operas. The flying Dutchman [Der Fliegende Hollander] ; Tannhäuser und der Sängerkrieg auf Wartburg ; Lohengrin ; Tristan und Isolde ; Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg ; Der Ring des Nibelungen ; Facets of the Ring ; Parsifal -- Part three: Exploring Wagner. Wagner issues: vegatarianism, antivivisectionism, and anti-Semitism ; Wagner on CD ; Wagner in print ; Wagner-oriented films ; Wagner soundtracks ; Making the Hadj: an insider's guide to Bayreuth. |
| Abstract |
This book is a helpful guide for navigating the strange and beautiful world of the most controversial artist who ever lived. The author tells you all you need to know to become a true Wagnerite--from story lines to historical background; from when to visit the rest room to how to sound smart during intermission; from the Jewish legend that possibly inspired Lohengrin to the tragic death of the first Tristan. The book includes the life of Wagner--German patriot (and exile, friend (and enemy) of List and Nietzsche--essential opera lore and "lobby talk," a scene-by-scene analysis of each opera, what to listen for to get the most from the music, and recommended recordings, films, and soundtracks. |
| General note | A Vintage original, first edition, October 1998. |
| Bibliography note | Includes discographical references, bibliographical references, an annotated film list, and index. |
| LCCN | 98019825 |
| ISBN | 0375700544 |
