Insightful close readings of four major operas: Explores Mozart's Cosi Fan tutte, Beethoven's Fidelio, Berlioz's Les Troyens, and Wagner's Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg for fresh perspectives
Analyzes social and political issues in each opera: Connects historical context to contemporary reinterpretations for a broader cultural critique
lucid and gracefully written: Engages readers with clear arguments and accessible language
Foreword by Peter Sellars: Offers a masterful appreciation of Said's achievements
Introduction by Wouter Capitan: situates essays within Said's career for context
Summarized by Shop
This book presents Edward W. Said’s insightful and elegant analyses of four major operas—originally delivered as the Empson Lectures at Cambridge University in 1997—showcasing the power of his critical acumen to unsettle canonical interpretations.