Richard Wagner spent a good twenty years of his life in Dresden. He went to school here, moved several times and worked as court conductor. Three of his operas were premiered here. Personalities from intellectual and cultural life, politicians and decision-makers shaped Wagner as an artist and political figure. His time in Dresden culminated in his legendary involvement in the May Uprising of 1849, which forced him to flee hastily into exile in Switzerland after the revolution failed. The richly illustrated catalogue takes us to the places where 'Wagner became Wagner', to places where he worked, stayed, socialised and retreated. Companions and adversaries are introduced. In addition, the history of the composer's reception in the 20th/21st century, which is overlaid with numerous myths, is illustrated and an overview of all productions of Wagner operas in Dresden is provided. Texts by Udo Bermbach, Josef Matzerath, Justus H. Ulbricht and Reiner Zimmermann provide an overview of the historical and intellectual context and the reception of this revered and controversial artist, whose myth is still present in Dresden today.
Edited by Erika Eschebach and Erik Omlor, with contributions by Erik Omlor, Udo Bermbach, Erika Eschebach, Josef Matzerath, Janine Schütz, Justus H. Ulbricht and Reiner Zimmermann, Dresden 2013