Wagner's Parsifal: An Appreciation in the Light of His Theological Journey

By Richard H Bell and Richard H. Bell

Parsifal, Wagner's final opera, is considered by many to be one of the greatest religious musical works ever composed; but it is also one of the most difficult to understand and many have questioned whether it can be considered a "Christian" work at all. Added to this is the furious debate that has surrounded the composer as an anti-Semite, racist, and inspiration for Hitler. Richard Bell addresses such issues and argues that despite any personal failings Wagner makes a fundamental theological contribution through his many writings and ultimately in Parsifal which, he argues, preaches Christ crucified in a way that can never be captured by words alone. He argues that Wagner offers a vision of the divine and a "theology of Good Friday" that can both function as profound therapy and address current theological controversies.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 149821648X
• ISBN13: 9781498216487
• Release Date: November 2013
• Publisher: Cascade Books
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.63 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.0" x 9.0"