Unit name | Richard Wagner's Der Ring |
---|---|
Unit code | MUSI20078 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | I/5 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Professor. Pickard |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | Department of Music |
Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This option is dedicated to a detailed examination of Wagner's Ring cycle: its sources, contexts, content and interpretation. Aside from a thorough examination of music, text and drama in each of its four constituent music dramas, we shall consider such issues as the influences on Wagner, his theories of opera and drama, his politics, the Festspielhaus, the history of the performance of The Ring, as well as discussion of a range of current controversies in Wagner criticism.
Aims:
This unit aims to develop understanding of one of the key works of the 19th century, Wagners Der Ring. In addition to looking in detail at the music, the philosophical contexts for this cycle of four operas will be considered, along with performance matters and strategies for criticism of the Wagnerian music-drama.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Seminars (NB. taught together with Year 3).
One coursework essay of c.3000 words (50%); 2-hr examination (50%)
NB the essay and examination questions will be specific to this level, as will the assessment criteria.