“Demonic, Ecstatic Antiquity”: On the Interpretation of Myth in the Opera “Elektra” by Richard Strauss — Hugo von Hofmannsthal

The opera “Elektra” is of particular significance for Richard Strauss. It opens an ancient line in his musical and theatrical legacy at the same time culmination expressionist tendencies work. also marks start Strauss’s collaboration with H. von Hofmannsthal as librettist. tragedy focuses on trends typical new understanding antiquity second half 19th century. An interest archaic, cults rituals representing irrational aspects Greek culture, brought to forefront. Hofmannsthal’s “Electra” was one first literary works embody image Greece. In course work opera, a role played treatise matriarchy pre-Hellenistic era “Das Mutterrecht” (1861) by J. Bachofen. acquired unexpected relevance turn 20th centuries when anxiously perceived resurgent world order. appears realm matriarchy. concentration title character, embodiment stage short but key segment her life, raging dark passions make Elektra characteristic phenomenon theatre. further expanded. With help sharp stylistic contrasts characterization heroine, Strauss conveys dissociation personality, loss identity. For Strauss, extreme emotional states that demanded use most daring, within style, compositional means. turning point composer’s His next “Der Rosenkavalier”, written entirely different style. subsequent operas themes are very far from irrationalist innovative pathos “Elektra”.