Table of Contents

List of illustrations 'Tannhauser' - an Obsession by Mike Ashman Tanhusare, Danheuser and Tannhauser by Stewart Spencer Wagner's Most Medieval Opera by Timothy McFarland Orpheus and the Underworld: The Music of Wagner's 'Tannhauser' by Carolyn Abbate Thematic Guide 'Tannhauser' poem by Richard Wagner 'Tannhauser' English translation by Rodney Blumer Act One Act Two Act Three Discography by Robert Seeley Bibliography by Stewart Spencer Contributors

About the Author

Richard Wagner (1813-83) was a composer who drew inspiration from Christian and Nordic mythology, as well as the philosophy of Schopenhauer, to pioneer dramatically new forms of music. His concept of the "Total Artwork" led to the construction of the Bayreuth Festspielhaus, an opera house he designed specifically for productions of his own operas. He also wrote widely on music and art. His operas include Tristan und Isolde, Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg and the four parts of Der Ring des Nibelungen.

Reviews

Brilliantly produced and superb value.' * Sunday Times * All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought.' * Daily Telegraph * Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series.' * TLS *