Richard Strauss

by Puffett, Derrick

• ISBN13: 9780521359702
• ISBN10: 0521359708
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1990-01-01
• Publisher: Cambridge Univ Pr

Summary

This full-length study of Salome is the first in English since Lawrence Gilman’s introductory guide of 1907. The handbook presents an informative collection of historical, critical and analytical studies of one of Strauss’s most familiar operas. Classic essays by Mario Praz and Richard Ellmann cover the literary background. How Strauss adopted Wilde’s play for his libretto is discussed by Roland Tenschert in a fascinating essay which has been updated by Derrick Puffett. In three central analytical chapters, Derrick Puffett considers Salome in relation to Wagnerian music drama, Tethys Carpenter examines its tonal and dramatic structure, and Craig Ayrey analyses the final monologue. The last part of the book moves from analysis to criticism, with a review by John Williamson of the opera’s critical reception and an interpretative essay by Robin Holloway. The book also contains a synopsis, bibliography, and discography; Strauss’s little-known scenario for the ‘Dance of the Seven Veils’ is reprinted as an appendix.

Table of Contents

General preface

List of illustrations

Introduction

Acknowledgements

Part I. Overtures to Salome: 1. Salome in literary tradition Mario Praz

2. Overtures to Wilde's Salome Richard Ellman

3. Strauss as librettist Roland Tenschert

Postscript Derrick Puffett

Part II. The Music: 4. Synopsis

5. Salome as music drama

6. Tonal and dramatic structure Tethys Carpenter

7. Salome's final monologue Craig Ayrey

Part III. Criticism: 8. Critical reception John Williamson

9. Salome: art or kitsch? Robin Holloway

Postlude: Images of Salome

Appendix A: Strauss's scenario for the 'Dance of the Seven Veils'

Appendix B: From the diary of Luigi Dallapiccola

Bibliography

Discography Malcolm Walker

Index.