The Case of Wagner

The essay is a scathing critique of the German composer Richard Wagner, whom Nietzsche had previously admired, but later came to despise. Nietzsche argues that Wagner's music represents a decadent and degenerate form of art, which promotes a nihilistic and life-denying worldview. He also accuses Wagner of promoting a kind of fake heroism, which he believes is dangerous and misleading. Overall, "The Case of Wagner" is a powerful critique of Wagner and his artistic legacy, and a provocative exploration of the nature of art and its relationship to human culture and values. Read in English, unabridged.