Finding an Ending: Reflections on Wagner's Ring

Richard Wagner's Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring of the Nibelung) is an epic masterpiece that has captivated audiences for over a century. Its complex characters, sweeping music, and profound symbolism have made it one of the most influential works in the history of opera.

Finding an Ending: Reflections on Wagner's Ring

by Philip Kitcher

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Language	:	English
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The Ring's ending has been the subject of much debate and interpretation. Wagner himself wrote several different versions of the ending, each with its own unique implications. In this article, we will explore the different endings of the Ring and discuss their significance.

The Original Ending

The original ending of the Ring was written in 1853. It is known as the "Götterdämmerung" (Twilight of the Gods) ending. In this ending, the gods are destroyed and the world is plunged into darkness. The only survivors are the Rhine Maidens, who reclaim the Ring from the ashes of the gods.

The Götterdämmerung ending is a bleak and pessimistic vision of the future. It suggests that the forces of evil and destruction will ultimately triumph. However, it also contains a glimmer of hope, as the Rhine Maidens represent the forces of nature and renewal.

The Revised Ending

In 1869, Wagner revised the ending of the Ring. This revised ending is known as the "Epilogue." In the Epilogue, the gods are not destroyed, but they are transformed. The world is also transformed, and it becomes a place of peace and harmony.

The Epilogue ending is a more optimistic vision of the future. It suggests that the forces of good will ultimately prevail. However, it also contains a warning, as the Ring still exists and could potentially be used for evil.

The Significance of the Ending

The ending of the Ring is essential to its overall meaning. It provides a resolution to the conflict between the forces of good and evil and it offers a glimpse of the future. The different endings that Wagner wrote offer different perspectives on the future of humanity.

The Götterdämmerung ending suggests that the forces of evil and destruction will ultimately triumph. The Epilogue ending suggests that the forces of good will ultimately prevail. Ultimately, the ending of the Ring is up to the individual listener to interpret.

The Ring of the Nibelung is a complex and multifaceted work of art. Its ending is no exception. The different endings that Wagner wrote offer different perspectives on the future of humanity. Ultimately, the ending of the Ring is up to the individual listener to interpret.

Finding an Ending: Reflections on Wagner's Ring

by Philip Kitcher

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	776 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	253 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE