Wagner   By: John F. Runciman (1866-1916)

Wagner by John F. Runciman offers readers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the life and works of Richard Wagner, the influential German composer of the 19th century. With meticulous research and a gripping narrative style, Runciman delves into the complex world of Wagner, shedding light on both the musical genius and the controversial figure he was.

One of the most impressive aspects of this biography is Runciman's ability to capture the essence of Wagner's music and its profound impact on the world of opera. Through a combination of historical context, critical analysis, and personal anecdotes, Runciman brings to life the revolutionary nature of Wagner's compositions and the controversies they stirred. Readers are offered a deep understanding of the creative process behind works such as "Tristan und Isolde" and "The Ring Cycle," as well as the struggles Wagner faced in bringing his groundbreaking concepts to fruition.

However, Runciman does not shy away from examining the less savory aspects of Wagner's life, including his anti-Semitic beliefs and controversial writings. He provides a balanced and nuanced portrayal of the composer, delving into the complexities of his character without shying away from his flaws. This willingness to tackle the challenging aspects of Wagner's legacy adds depth and credibility to the biography.

Moreover, Runciman's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex world of classical music and opera accessible to a wide range of readers. He skillfully weaves together historical accounts, musical analysis, and personal insights, creating a multi-dimensional portrait of Wagner that is both informative and captivating. Whether one is a dedicated music enthusiast or a casual reader curious about one of history's most important composers, Runciman's book offers something for everyone.

Though Wagner's life and works have been extensively covered in numerous biographies, Runciman's contribution stands out for its scrupulous attention to detail and its ability to present a comprehensive picture of the composer's life and impact. Accessible yet thought-provoking, Wagner is an engaging read that successfully navigates the complexities of its subject matter. Whether one is an ardent fan of Wagner's music or simply interested in delving into the life of a renowned historical figure, Runciman's biography is an excellent choice that will surely leave readers with a deeper appreciation and understanding of Richard Wagner.

First Page:

The old world is very remote from us now, but it is worth while making a small attempt to realize how it stood to Wagner. When he was born, in 1813, Bach had been dead only a little over sixty years; Mozart had been dead about twenty years, and Haydn about ten; Beethoven was in the full splendour of his tremendous powers; Weber and Schubert had still their finest work to do. To grasp all that this means, let us consider our relation to Mendelssohn. He died nearly sixty years ago; yet, whatever we may think of him as a composer, we can scarcely call him old fashioned: he remains indisputably one of the moderns. Now, Wagner can never have looked upon Bach as a modern. He spoke of him and his old periwig almost as one might allude to an extinct race of animals. The history of an art cannot be measured off in years: in some periods it moves slowly, in others with startling rapidity. Since Mendelssohn's day composers have sought rather to develop old resources and forms than to find and create new ones, whereas in the sixty years that lie between Bach's death and Wagner's birth the whole form and content, the very stuff, of music was changed... Continue reading book >>