The Wagner Case. Collection

The book consists of two works by Friedrich Nietzsche, allowing to trace the evolution of his philosophy of art. In the treatise 'The Birth of Tragedy, or Hellenism and Pessimism,' Nietzsche presents a view on the dualistic nature of the human spirit and, as a result, artistic creativity. The Dionysian element associated with the sensual and the Apollonian element gravitating towards orderliness are in irreconcilable conflict. According to Nietzsche's thought, their fusion was possible in the singular form of art - ancient Greek tragedy, but subsequent development of rationalistic worldview destroyed the acquired harmony. Linking hope for the restoration of lost balance with the operas of Richard Wagner, the philosopher returned to this idea sixteen years later, writing 'The Case of Wagner' - a response to the composer of 'sick music' that excites people's nerves rather than a sense of beauty.