'Perfect Wagnerite' Summary

Shaw's *The Perfect Wagnerite* is not a straightforward analysis of the music itself but rather a philosophical exploration of the ideas embedded in the opera. He sees the *Ring* as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of unchecked capitalism, with Wotan, the god of the Norse pantheon, representing the flawed, ultimately doomed capitalist system. The Nibelung hoard, a symbol of material wealth, becomes a metaphor for the corrupting influence of money. Shaw argues that the cycle ultimately ends with a return to a more natural, communal order, suggesting a socialist ideal. He also analyzes Wagner's musical choices, noting the shift in style from the early, more operatic *Das Rheingold* to the later, more complex *Siegfried* and *Götterdämmerung*, suggesting that Wagner himself was moving away from traditional operatic forms. Shaw's writing is both erudite and engaging, blending sharp wit with insightful observations, making this book a compelling read for anyone interested in Wagner's work, opera, or the broader themes of social and political change.