Wagner's Parsifal

Discover the profound depth of Wagner's Parsifal in this insightful analysis, a must-read for music enthusiasts and philosophers alike. This brand new B-format paperback, published by Penguin UK, invites readers into the world of Wagner's last music-drama, which explores themes of compassion, redemption, and the quest for purity within the Kingdom of the Grail. Delve into the story of Parsifal, the 'pure fool,' whose journey encapsulates Wagner's lifelong obsession with spirituality and the human condition. The detailed exploration reveals how Wagner's masterful composition intertwines suffering, contrition, sin, and forgiveness, ultimately presenting a unique perspective on redemption that defies conventional Christian archetypes.

This engaging book not only narrates the emotional narrative of Parsifal but also enriches readers with musical insights that highlight the intricate relationship between music and meaning. With its compelling analysis, you will uncover how Wagner's music elicits feelings that words cannot capture. Perfect for students, academics, and avid fans of classical music, Wagner's Parsifal is an essential addition to your library, promising to deepen your appreciation for one of the most significant works in Western music. Immerse yourself in this beautifully crafted examination of Wagner’s legacy and the transformative power of his art.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780141991665
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2021
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 208


Description:
Wagner's last music-drama tells the story of Parsifal, the 'pure fool, knowing through compassion', who has been called to rescue the Kingdom of the Grail from the sins that have polluted it. The Grail is a symbol of purity in a world of lust and power, but although Parsifal is the culmination of Wagner's life-long obsession with the religious frame of mind, the redemption sought by his characters is far from the Christian archetype. For Wagner, redemption occurs inthis life, when compassion prevails over enslavement, and purity replaces spiritual pollution. His music here ties together suffering and contrition, sin and forgiveness, downfall and redemption in an inextricable knot, healing the fractures and uniting the warring elements in human life in a way that is clear, convincing and uncanny. More than any other of his works, Parsifal expresses in music a depth of feeling for which we do not have words.

This short but penetrating book, by a writer who was uniquely both a leading philosopher and musicologist, shows us how Wagner achieves this profound work, explaining the story, its musical ideas, and their coming together into a sublime whole which gives us the musical equivalent of forgiveness and closure. There are few writers who can so enhance our understanding of one of the greatest works in western music.