740-318 Wagner's Ring

A study of the dramatic and musical ideas governing Der Ring des Nibelungen, as well as Wagner's development as a music dramatist, and his place in 19th-century musical history.

On completion of this subject, students will be able to (a) identify the principal musical motifs and ideas of Wagner's Ring (b) communicate a specific knowledge of Wagner's place in music history (c) undertake independently a critical study of 19th-century opera.

An essay or class assignments of up to 2000 words (30%); listening test (20%); end-of-semester project (50%).