This study concerns the life of Richard Wagner. Pychoanalytical concepts are employed to delve into the workings of the great composer’s mind. Various theories are put forward related to the underlying and unconscious dynamic, which influenced one of the world’s best-loved composers.
The study is divided into two parts. The first part is based on Freud’s case study of the American President Thomas Woodrow Wilson. Central biographical details are taken into account. These details affect artistic creation, social relationships and the development of the composer’s political and ideological views.
Reference is also made to identity, narcissism, father figures and those individuals who may have played the role of substitute or surrogate parents. Wagner’s personal and sentimental difficulties and his search for a settled life are also dicussed.
The second part, which is not published in this edition, deals with more polemic issues such as his anti-semitisism. An overall psychoanalytical study of Wagner’s vast output is undertaken. This includes an in-depth analysis of his masterpiece, Tristan and Isolde.
Keywords:
abandonment, paternal function, maternal function, compulsion to love triangulation, bisexuality
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