Wagnerism

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Alex Ross, a prominent music critic, explores Richard Wagner's profound influence on modern art and politics, framing him as a pivotal figure in the aesthetic conflicts of the Western world. Around 1900, Wagnerism permeated European and American culture, with masterpieces like The Ring of the Nibelung and Tristan und Isolde exemplifying formal innovation and mythic exploration. Artists such as Virginia Woolf, Thomas Mann, and Isadora Duncan were inspired by his work, while various social movements found resonance in his ideas. However, Wagner's legacy was marred when Adolf Hitler co-opted his music for Nazi propaganda, linking him to antisemitism and artistic malevolence. In this examination, Ross navigates the complex legacy of Wagner, revealing a tumultuous landscape of artists and thinkers who grapple with his multifaceted impact. His analysis spans diverse fields, connecting architecture, literature, and civil rights, illustrating how Wagner's themes persist in contemporary culture, from superhero narratives to fantasy genres. Ultimately, this work is a passionate inquiry into the dual nature of art, challenging readers to confront the complexities of Wagner's influence without resorting to simple judgments.