What is Parsifal, and who composed it?

Parsifal is a music drama in three acts, and it was the final composition by the German composer Richard Wagner. It is considered a significant work in the operatic repertoire.

What literary works served as the basis for Richard Wagner's Parsifal?

Wagner's libretto for Parsifal is freely based on Wolfram von Eschenbach's 13th-century Middle High German chivalric romance "Parzival" and Chrétien de Troyes' 12th-century Old French romance "Perceval ou le Conte du Graal." These sources recount the Arthurian legend of Parzival's quest for the Holy Grail.

When did Richard Wagner conceive and complete Parsifal?

Wagner conceived the idea for Parsifal in April 1857 but did not finish composing it until 25 years later. This long gestation period allowed for significant development of the work.

Where and when did the premiere of Parsifal take place?

The premiere of Parsifal was held at the Bayreuth Festspielhaus on July 26, 1882. This venue was specifically built by Wagner to showcase his works.

How did Wagner describe Parsifal, distinguishing it from a typical opera?

Wagner described Parsifal not as an opera, but as Ein Bühnenweihfestspiel, which translates to 'a sacred festival stage play.' This designation highlights his intention for the work to be a unique, solemn theatrical experience.

What was the significance of the Bayreuth Festival's monopoly on Parsifal productions?

The Bayreuth Festival maintained exclusive rights to stage Parsifal until 1914. Wagner intended this monopoly to preserve the work's integrity and prevent it from becoming mere entertainment, and also as a financial benefit for his family after his death.

How did the Metropolitan Opera in New York challenge the Bayreuth monopoly on Parsifal?

The Metropolitan Opera staged Parsifal in 1903 after a U.S. court ruled that Bayreuth's monopoly did not apply in the United States. This marked the first staged performance of the work outside of Bayreuth.

What tradition arose at Bayreuth regarding audience applause during Parsifal performances?

A tradition developed at Bayreuth where audiences refrain from applauding at the end of the first act. This originated from a misunderstanding of Wagner's request to maintain the opera's solemn mood.

What was the initial inspiration for Wagner's interest in themes later explored in Parsifal?

Wagner's interest in themes such as self-renunciation, compassion, and rebirth was influenced by his reading of Arthur Schopenhauer's writings in 1854 and his subsequent interest in Indian philosophies, particularly Buddhism. These themes were first explored in his unfinished opera sketch, 'Die Sieger'.

According to Wagner's autobiography, when and where did he conceive the idea for Parsifal?

Wagner stated in his autobiography, 'Mein Leben,' that he conceived Parsifal on a Good Friday morning in April 1857, while staying in the 'Asyl' cottage on Otto Wesendonck's estate in Zurich. However, his wife Cosima later suggested this account might have been embellished.

What was the role of the Holy Spear in the narrative of Parsifal?

The Holy Spear is a central artifact in Parsifal. It was originally entrusted to Amfortas, but was stolen by Klingsor. Later, Parsifal wields the same spear to heal Amfortas's wound, signifying redemption.

Who was Klingsor, and what was his significance in the drama?

Klingsor is an evil magician and a former knight of the Grail who castrated himself in a misguided attempt at purity. He opposes the knights of the Grail and seeks to corrupt Parsifal, representing a force of darkness and temptation.

What is the significance of the swan in Act 1 of Parsifal?

In Act 1, Parsifal enters carrying a dead swan he has killed. Gurnemanz chastises him for this act, highlighting the sacred nature of the Grail's domain and foreshadowing Parsifal's journey toward compassion.

What is the 'Good Friday Spell' mentioned in Parsifal?

The 'Good Friday Spell' refers to a musical interlude in Act 3, Scene 1, which accompanies Parsifal washing Kundry's feet and anointing him. It symbolizes the purification and renewal of nature and humanity on Good Friday.

How does Parsifal gain understanding of Amfortas's suffering?

Parsifal gains understanding of Amfortas's suffering when, after being tempted by Kundry in Act 2, he feels the pain of Amfortas's wound and sin within himself. This realization stems from experiencing his own nascent desires and Kundry's curse.

What is the role of Kundry in the opera?

Kundry is a complex character who serves as a messenger for the Grail and is cursed by Klingsor to seduce men and never find peace. She plays a crucial role in Parsifal's spiritual journey, acting as both a temptress and a figure seeking redemption.

What happens to Klingsor's castle and garden at the end of Act 2?

When Parsifal makes the sign of the cross with the Holy Spear, Klingsor's castle and enchanted garden are destroyed and sink away, symbolizing the defeat of dark sorcery through purity and faith.

What is the significance of Parsifal's wandering ('Parsifals Irrfahrt')?

The prelude to Act 3 is titled 'Parsifal's Wandering,' signifying the many years Parsifal spent searching for the Grail after being exiled. This period of wandering is crucial for his development into the 'pure fool' who understands compassion.

How is Amfortas's wound healed in the final act?

In the final act, Parsifal touches Amfortas's side with the Holy Spear, which heals the wound and absolves him from sin. This act signifies the culmination of Parsifal's quest and the restoration of the Grail community.

What is the ultimate fate of Kundry in the opera?

At the very end of the opera, Kundry, released from her curse through Parsifal's compassion, sinks lifeless to the ground with her gaze fixed on him, signifying her redemption.

What musical elements did Wagner use to represent the Grail?

Wagner used the 'Dresden amen,' a sequence of notes familiar to him from his childhood, to represent the Grail. This motif is repeated throughout the opera, underscoring the sacred nature of the relic.

What is a leitmotif, and how is it used in Parsifal?

A leitmotif is a recurring musical theme associated with a particular character, object, or idea. Parsifal makes extensive use of leitmotifs, with themes representing characters like Parsifal, Klingsor, Amfortas, and concepts like the Grail and communion.

What are some notable orchestral excerpts from Parsifal that are performed in concert?

Frequently performed orchestral excerpts include the prelude to Act 1 and the 'Good Friday' music from Act 3. Kundry's long solo in Act 2 ('Ich sah das Kind') and Amfortas's lament from Act 1 ('Wehvolles Erbe') are also occasionally performed.

What unusual instrument did Wagner specify for Parsifal, and why?

Wagner specified the contrabassoon in Parsifal, an instrument he also used in his early Symphony in C major. Its inclusion contributes to the unique orchestral color and depth of the score.

How were the bells for the Grail ceremony in Parsifal originally realized, and what happened to them?

For the premiere, Wagner had a 'Parsifal bell,' a piano frame with four strings, constructed as a substitute for church bells. These original bells were later melted down for scrap during World War II.

What modern instruments are used to replicate the sound of the Parsifal bells?

In contemporary performances, the Parsifal bells are often replaced with tubular bells or synthesizers to achieve the desired sound, as the original instruments are no longer available.

Which conductor is most closely associated with Parsifal at the Bayreuth Festival in the post-war era?

Hans Knappertsbusch is highly associated with Parsifal at Bayreuth in the post-war period. His 1951 performances marked the reopening of the festival after World War II and are considered historic recordings.

What was controversial about Wieland Wagner's 1951 Bayreuth production of Parsifal?

Wieland Wagner's 1951 production was controversial because it moved away from literal stage representations, using lighting and minimal scenery influenced by Adolphe Appia. While praised by some, like Ernest Newman, others felt it disregarded Wagner's stage directions.

How did Hans Knappertsbusch react to Wieland Wagner's minimalist staging of Parsifal in 1951?

Knappertsbusch, the conductor, was initially dismayed by the minimalist staging, even joking that he thought the scenery was yet to arrive. He was particularly upset by the omission of the dove, a symbol he felt inspired his performances.

What was Richard Wagner's stance on Hermann Levi conducting the premiere of Parsifal?

Richard Wagner expressed reservations about Hermann Levi, who was Jewish, conducting the premiere of Parsifal, which he considered his most Christian work. Wagner initially suggested Levi convert to Christianity, which Levi declined.

What philosophical ideas are considered influential in Parsifal?

Arthur Schopenhauer's philosophy, particularly his emphasis on compassion (Mitleid) and the negation of the Will, is considered highly influential in Parsifal. The opera's themes of suffering, redemption, and compassion align with Schopenhauer's ideas.

How did Friedrich Nietzsche critique Parsifal and its relationship with Wagner?

Friedrich Nietzsche used Parsifal as the basis for his break with Wagner, viewing the opera as an example of life-denying, Christian slave morality. He criticized its 'will to nothingness' and called it a 'perfidy' and an 'assassination of basic ethics,' although he acknowledged the sublimity of the music itself.

What is the debate surrounding racism and antisemitism in Parsifal?

Some scholars argue that Parsifal promotes racism and antisemitism, interpreting Klingsor as a Jewish stereotype and Parsifal as an Aryan hero. However, this interpretation is debated, with others suggesting the conflict is more broadly between Wagner's philosophical ideals and a pagan sphere, and noting the absence of such explicit intentions in Wagner's writings or Cosima's diaries.

What was Wagner's view on using Christian imagery in art, as expressed in his essay 'Religion and Art'?

In 'Religion and Art,' Wagner stated that when religion becomes artificial, art has the duty to rescue it by idealizing its symbols and revealing the profound truths they contain, suggesting that religious imagery can be understood figuratively rather than literally.

How did Eduard Hanslick, a critic, view the religious aspects of Parsifal?

Eduard Hanslick, a prominent critic, felt that the church scenes in Parsifal, despite their dignity, were entirely in the style of opera, not the church. He argued that Parsifal was an opera, regardless of Wagner's designation as a 'sacred festival stage play,' and did not find the religious elements offensive as some had predicted.

What is the significance of Parsifal's compassion in relation to Schopenhauer's philosophy?

Parsifal's ability to heal Amfortas and redeem Kundry stems from his compassion, which Schopenhauer identified as the highest form of human morality. The opera's emphasis on compassion, particularly in overcoming temptation, reflects Schopenhauerian thought.

How does the opera's theme of compassion extend to non-human beings, reflecting Schopenhauer's ideas?

The opera reflects Schopenhauer's view that compassion should extend to non-human beings through the reverence for animals within the Grail Kingdom. Parsifal's killing of the swan in Act 1 is met with shock, initiating his journey toward understanding compassion for all sentient life.

What was the reception of Parsifal by contemporary composers like Hugo Wolf and Gustav Mahler?

Contemporary composers generally held Parsifal in high regard. Hugo Wolf found it 'Colossal – Wagner's most inspired, sublimest creation,' while Gustav Mahler described attending a performance as 'the greatest and most painful revelation' of his life.

What was Mark Twain's opinion of Parsifal?

Mark Twain, visiting Bayreuth in 1891, found the vocal parts lacking in discernible rhythm, tune, or melody. He humorously described a scene where a hermit character 'practices by the hour' while others endure it.

What was George Bernard Shaw's critique of the initial performances of Parsifal?

George Bernard Shaw, a Wagner enthusiast, criticized the opening performance of Parsifal in 1894, deeming the principal singers' musical performance 'simply an abomination,' citing issues with howling, bawling, singing flat, and screaming.

What is the meaning of the term 'Bühnenweihfestspiel' as applied to Parsifal?

Bühnenweihfestspiel translates to 'sacred festival stage play.' Wagner used this term to distinguish Parsifal from conventional operas, emphasizing its unique, solemn, and ritualistic nature intended for a specific festival setting.

What was the role of Amalie Materna and Hermann Winkelmann in the premiere production?

Amalie Materna performed the role of Kundry, and Hermann Winkelmann portrayed Parsifal in the premiere production of Parsifal at the Bayreuth Festival in 1882. Both were prominent singers of the era.

What specific musical motif did Wagner use to represent the Grail?

Wagner utilized the 'Dresden amen,' a sequence of notes he had known since childhood in Dresden, to represent the Grail in Parsifal. This motif is a recurring element associated with the sacred relic.

What is the significance of the 'transformation music' (Verwandlungsmusik) in Parsifal?

The 'transformation music' in Parsifal, particularly heard between scenes in Act 1 and in Act 3, signifies shifts in setting and spiritual state. It is used to transition between the earthly realm and the mystical world of the Grail.

What was the general reaction to Wieland Wagner's radical 1951 production of Parsifal?

Wieland Wagner's minimalist 1951 production of Parsifal elicited extreme reactions. While biographer Ernest Newman called it one of the most moving spiritual experiences of his life, others were appalled by its departure from Wagner's original stage directions.

What specific criticism did Nietzsche have regarding the ethical implications of Parsifal?

Nietzsche criticized Parsifal for promoting a life-denying, ascetic morality, which he associated with Christian slave morality. He viewed the opera's themes of chastity and renunciation as an incitement against nature and a 'will to nothingness'.

How did Wagner's views on nature and animals influence Parsifal?

Wagner's later advocacy for vegetarianism and opposition to vivisection, reflecting a broader compassion for sentient beings, is echoed in Parsifal. The reverence for animals within the Grail kingdom and the reaction to Parsifal killing the swan highlight this theme.

What is the significance of Parsifal's final act of making the sign of the cross with the Holy Spear?

By making the sign of the cross with the Holy Spear, Parsifal banishes Klingsor's sorcery and heals Amfortas. This action symbolizes the triumph of faith, compassion, and redemption over evil and suffering.

What is the meaning of 'pure fool' in the context of Parsifal?

The 'pure fool' is a character archetype, embodied by Parsifal, who initially lacks worldly knowledge but possesses an innate innocence and capacity for compassion. Through suffering and experience, this fool becomes enlightened and capable of achieving spiritual understanding and redemption.

What role did the Bayreuth Festspielhaus play in the composition and premiere of Parsifal?

Wagner composed Parsifal specifically taking advantage of the unique acoustics of the newly built Bayreuth Festspielhaus. The premiere and subsequent exclusive performances were held there, reinforcing its status as a sacred festival play.

What was the intended meaning behind Wagner's term 'Bühnenweihfestspiel'?

The term 'Bühnenweihfestspiel' (sacred festival stage play) indicated Wagner's desire for Parsifal to be more than just an opera; he envisioned it as a solemn, ritualistic event, a consecration of the stage itself, to be performed only at the Bayreuth Festival.

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The Opera: Parsifal

A Sacred Festival Play

Parsifal, designated by Richard Wagner as Ein Bühnenweihfestspiel (a sacred festival stage play), is his final composition. This three-act music drama is a profound exploration of Arthurian legend, drawing inspiration from Wolfram von Eschenbach's 13th-century epic Parzival and Chrétien de Troyes' earlier romance.

Thematic Core

At its heart, Parsifal recounts the spiritual quest of the Arthurian knight Parsifal for the Holy Grail. The narrative delves into themes of purity, compassion, redemption, suffering, and the conflict between spiritual and sensual realms, set against the backdrop of the Grail's mystical kingdom.

Origins and Influence

Wagner conceived the work in 1857, but it was not completed until 25 years later. The opera's unique structure and thematic depth were significantly influenced by his engagement with Arthurian literature and the philosophical insights of Arthur Schopenhauer, particularly his ideas on compassion and the negation of the will.

Compositional Journey

A Lifelong Endeavor

Richard Wagner's engagement with the legend of Parsifal spanned decades. He first read Wolfram von Eschenbach's poem in 1845, and the initial conception for the music drama emerged in April 1857. However, the work was set aside multiple times as Wagner completed other major operas like Tristan und Isolde and Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, and the Ring cycle.

Philosophical Underpinnings

Wagner's study of Arthur Schopenhauer's philosophy, particularly his emphasis on compassion (Mitleid) and the renunciation of worldly desires, profoundly shaped Parsifal. These philosophical currents are interwoven with Buddhist concepts that also fascinated Wagner, contributing to the opera's spiritual and ethical dimensions.

Bayreuth's Unique Acoustics

The composition was meticulously crafted with the specific acoustics of the Bayreuth Festspielhaus in mind, the venue for which Wagner intended the work. This deliberate integration of music and architecture aimed to create an immersive and contemplative experience for the audience, enhancing the opera's ritualistic quality.

Performance and Legacy

Premiere and Bayreuth Monopoly

Parsifal premiered at the Bayreuth Festspielhaus on July 26, 1882, conducted by Hermann Levi. Wagner stipulated that the work should only be performed at Bayreuth, aiming to preserve its sacred character and prevent it from becoming mere entertainment. This monopoly was maintained for over thirty years, with the first authorized performances outside Bayreuth occurring in 1914.

Post-War Innovations

Significant productions in the post-World War II era, notably Wieland Wagner's 1951 staging, revolutionized the opera's visual presentation. Moving away from literal interpretations, these productions utilized abstract designs and innovative lighting to emphasize the drama's psychological and spiritual dimensions, sparking both acclaim and controversy.

Audience Reception

A unique tradition emerged at Bayreuth where audiences refrain from applauding after the first act, a practice intended to maintain the solemn atmosphere. This custom, though not originally Wagner's explicit wish, highlights the opera's perceived ritualistic significance and its capacity to evoke deep emotional and spiritual responses.

Principal Roles

Parsifal

The "pure fool" who embarks on the quest for the Holy Grail. Initially naive, Parsifal develops through suffering and compassion to become the Grail King.

Kundry

A mysterious, cursed woman who serves as a messenger for the Grail and is bound to Klingsor's service. She embodies both seduction and penitence, seeking redemption through Parsifal.

Gurnemanz

An aged, wise knight of the Grail, serving as a mentor figure. He guides Parsifal and recounts the history of the Grail kingdom and its plight.

Amfortas

The suffering King of the Grail, wounded by Klingsor and unable to fulfill his duties. His pain and shame are central to the drama.

Klingsor

A sorcerer who opposes the Grail knights. He represents the forces of darkness and temptation, having castrated himself in a failed attempt at spiritual purity.

Titurel

The ancient, retired King of the Grail and father of Amfortas. His existence is sustained by the Grail itself.

Synopsis

Act I: The Forest

In a forest near the Grail's sanctuary, the aged knight Gurnemanz awakens his squires. They learn of King Amfortas's unhealing wound, inflicted by the Holy Spear stolen by the sorcerer Klingsor. Parsifal arrives, having killed a swan, and is chastised by Gurnemanz. Parsifal learns of his mother's death and is invited to witness the Grail ceremony, where Amfortas reveals the sacred chalice, suffering intensely.

Act II: Klingsor's Castle

Klingsor summons Kundry, transforming her into an alluring enchantress, to seduce Parsifal. In Klingsor's magical garden, Parsifal resists the flowermaidens' temptations. Kundry reveals his past and attempts to seduce him. Parsifal, experiencing his first stirrings of desire, recoils, suddenly understanding Amfortas's suffering. He seizes the Holy Spear, banishing Klingsor's magic and freeing Kundry from her curse.

Act III: The Grail's Return

Years later, on Good Friday, Parsifal returns to the Grail's domain. He finds Kundry, now penitent, serving as a hermit's assistant. Parsifal, bearing the Holy Spear, heals Amfortas's wound with it. He is proclaimed the new Grail King, and Kundry, released from her curse, finds peace in death. The opera concludes with a vision of the Grail's redemption and a chorus praising salvation.

Musical Architecture

Leitmotifs and Harmony

Parsifal is renowned for its sophisticated use of leitmotifs, recurring musical themes associated with characters, objects, and ideas. The opera's harmonic language is highly chromatic, exploring complex tonal relationships that contribute to its mystical and contemplative atmosphere. The "Dresden amen" motif is notably used to represent the Grail.

Instrumentation

Wagner's score calls for a large orchestra, including unique instrumentation such as the contrabassoon and specially designed "Parsifal bells" (later replaced by tubular bells or synthesizers) to create specific sonic effects. The orchestration masterfully enhances the dramatic and spiritual narrative.

Notable Excerpts

While Parsifal is structured as a continuous musical flow without traditional arias, several orchestral passages are frequently performed in concert. These include the Prelude to Act I, the "Good Friday" music from Act III, and Kundry's solo "Ich sah das Kind."

Analysis and Influence

Philosophical Debates

Parsifal has been subject to extensive interpretation, particularly concerning its philosophical underpinnings. Its emphasis on compassion aligns with Schopenhauer's ideas, while its perceived asceticism and Christian symbolism led to critiques from Friedrich Nietzsche, who viewed it as life-denying.

Controversies

Discussions surrounding Parsifal have included debates on its potential racial or antisemitic undertones, particularly concerning the portrayal of Klingsor and the opera's perceived "Christian" themes. Wagner's own writings and correspondence have fueled these complex and often contentious interpretations.

Enduring Impact

Despite controversies, Parsifal remains a cornerstone of the operatic repertoire. Its profound musical and dramatic content has influenced generations of composers and continues to provoke deep reflection on themes of spirituality, suffering, and redemption.

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References

Richard Wagner, Das braune Buch. Tagebuchaufzeichnungen 1865 bis 1882, ed. Joachim Bergfeld, Atlantis Verlag, ZÃ¼rich and Freiburg im Breisgau 1975, p. 52.

"Pondering the Mysteries of Parsifal" by Fred Plotkin, WQXR, 2 March 2013.

Parsifal, 24 December 1903, Met performance details

Igor Stravinsky, by Michael Oliver, Phaidon Press, 1995, pp. 57â58.

Hans von Wolzogen, Thematic Guide Through the Music of Parsifal: with a preface upon the legendary material of the Wagnerian drama, Schirmer, 1904.

Ernest Newman, A Study of Wagner, Dobell, 1899. .

E.g. Zelinsky (1982), passim, Rose (1992), pp. 135, 158â169 and Weiner (1997), passim.

Cosima Wagner's Diaries, tr. Geoffrey Skelton. Collins, 1980. Entries for 11 August, 5 December 1877.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Parsifal Wikipedia page

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This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional musicological analysis, historical research, or artistic consultation. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified experts for in-depth understanding.

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Parsifal: The Enigma of the Grail

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Opera: Parsifal 🎶

🎭 A Sacred Festival Play

📜 Thematic Core

🌍 Origins and Influence

Compositional Journey ✍️

⏳ A Lifelong Endeavor

💡 Philosophical Underpinnings

🏛️ Bayreuth's Unique Acoustics

Performance and Legacy 📈

🌟 Premiere and Bayreuth Monopoly

🏛️ Post-War Innovations

🗣️ Audience Reception

Principal Roles 👤

😇 Parsifal

🔮 Kundry

👴 Gurnemanz

💔 Amfortas

😈 Klingsor

👑 Titurel

Synopsis 📖

🌳 Act I: The Forest

🏰 Act II: Klingsor's Castle

🕊️ Act III: The Grail's Return

Musical Architecture 🎵

🎶 Leitmotifs and Harmony

🎻 Instrumentation

🎵 Notable Excerpts

Analysis and Influence 🧐

⚖️ Philosophical Debates

📜 Controversies

💡 Enduring Impact

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Opera: Parsifal

A Sacred Festival Play

Thematic Core

Origins and Influence

Compositional Journey

A Lifelong Endeavor

Philosophical Underpinnings

Bayreuth's Unique Acoustics

Performance and Legacy

Premiere and Bayreuth Monopoly

Post-War Innovations

Audience Reception

Principal Roles

Parsifal

Kundry

Gurnemanz

Amfortas

Klingsor

Titurel

Synopsis

Act I: The Forest

Act II: Klingsor's Castle

Act III: The Grail's Return

Musical Architecture

Leitmotifs and Harmony

Instrumentation

Notable Excerpts

Analysis and Influence

Philosophical Debates

Controversies

Enduring Impact

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice