Said on Opera

Edward W. Said was a renowned public intellectual who analyzed four major operas, exploring their social and political themes and their potential for contemporary reinterpretation. Said's insights into operatic texts and performance enrich our understanding of these works, and this book showcases his critical acumen.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2024
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Edward W. Said, a renowned public intellectual of the late twentieth century, possessed an extraordinary range of criticism. This captivating volume presents his profound and elegant analyses of four renowned operas, originally delivered as the Empson Lectures at Cambridge University in 1997. Through meticulous examinations of Mozart's Così fan tutte, Beethoven's Fidelio, Berlioz's Les Troyens, and Wagner's Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Said unveils the immense power of his critical acumen to challenge and upend established interpretations.

In his close readings, Said delves into the intricate layers of these operas, exploring how they engage with the social and political concerns of their respective eras. He meticulously examines the historical context of each work, as well as the possibilities it presents for contemporary reinterpretations. He explores the delicate balance between the cultural prestige of opera and its potential for subversion, shedding light on the tensions that exist within it.

Said's analysis extends to the representation of national identity, class, and exoticism within these operas. He demonstrates how cultural and literary studies can enhance our understanding of operatic texts and performances, offering fresh insights and perspectives. His writing is lucid and gracefully composed, enlivening well-known works with profound new insights.

Said on Opera showcases the breadth of Edward W. Said's contributions to cultural criticism. This book features an introduction by the editor, Wouter Capitain, who contextualizes these essays within the broader trajectory of Said's career. Additionally, a foreword by the acclaimed opera director Peter Sellars provides a masterful appreciation of Said's achievements, highlighting his profound impact on the field.

In conclusion, Edward W. Said's Said on Opera is a testament to his remarkable intellectual prowess and his ability to engage with the complexities of opera. Through his insightful and elegant analyses, he challenges canonical interpretations, offers fresh insights, and expands our understanding of these iconic works. This book is a valuable addition to the literature on opera and cultural criticism, inspiring scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 147 x 224 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231212007