Description
Reviews
Emslie makes some important points with clarity and precision. ... [He] rightly emphasises the importance of Wagner's prose works, not just the well-known theoretical tracts but lesser-known essays such as 'Die Wibelungen' and 'Jesus von Nazareth' as central to the Wagnerian project. * MUSIC AND LETTERS *
[P]rovides an impressively wide-ranging setting for discussion of Wagner on the whole. [...] it is fitting that the book emanates from this country's most ambitious medieval publishers who also have an impressively expanding music list. * TLS *
Emslie's... entertainingly opinionated examination of Wagner's operas offers a psychological study of the composer, a guide to his often contradictory writings and an up-to-the minute commentary on interpretation. * . *
One of the Financial Times' books of the year 2010 * . *
Discussing the operas in chronological order, Emslie charts the many manifestations of love in Wagner from the fraternal to the eternal...The result is a fascinating read offering challenging new perspectives that take one back to the music to listen anew...surely the essential Wagner book of the year. -- Michael Quinn * CLASSICAL MUSIC *
This new study offers a lively introduction to anyone seeking to understand [Wagner's ideas]...his highly opinionated survey brings fresh air to the debate. -- Andrew Clark * FINANCIAL TIMES *
This book has one thinking about Wagner as most do not...I would recommend any serious Wagner-lover, perhaps Wagner-hater, to read it. -- Michael Tanner * OPERA *
Emslie...writes engagingly, carrying one along with his way of thinking, and driving one to think for oneself...I enjoyed reading [this book]. It has given me much to ponder, much to contest. -- Mark Berry * WAGNER JOURNAL *
Book Information
ISBN 9781843835363
Author Barry Emslie
Format Hardback
Page Count 320
Imprint The Boydell Press
Publisher Boydell & Brewer Ltd
Weight(grams) 1g