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Opera's Second Death: Unmasking the Uncanny in Mladen Dolar's Masterpiece

Langston Hughes

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Cover Of Mladen Dolar's 'Opera's Second Death' Opera S Second Death Mladen Dolar

Unveiling the Enigmatic Realm of Opera

In his groundbreaking work, "Opera's Second Death," renowned Slovenian philosopher Mladen Dolar delves into the enigmatic realm of opera, unveiling its hidden depths and exploring its uncanny power to captivate and unsettle. Dolar argues that opera is a unique art form that possesses a dual nature, embodying both a powerful attraction and a profound sense of unease.

Opera's Second Death

by Mladen Dolar

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	611 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	248 pages

Through a series of thought-provoking essays, Dolar examines the paradoxical nature of opera, showcasing its ability to simultaneously evoke pleasure and pain, beauty and horror. He dissects the complex interplay between music, drama, and spectacle, revealing how these elements coalesce to create an immersive and unforgettable experience.

The Haunting Allure of the Opera House

Dolar begins his exploration by focusing on the opera house itself, recognizing it as a microcosm of the human psyche. He describes the ornate setting, the hushed anticipation, and the transformative power of the curtain rising, setting the stage for a performance that promises to transport the audience to another realm.

As the performance unfolds, Dolar immerses the reader in the interplay of voices, the soaring melodies, and the intricate harmonies. He analyzes the way in which opera's vocalization and music evoke emotions that transcend words, tapping into deep-seated yearnings and fears.

Unveiling the Uncanny

At the heart of Dolar's analysis lies the concept of the uncanny, a term coined by Sigmund Freud to describe a sense of unease or strangeness that arises when something both familiar and unfamiliar is encountered. Dolar argues that opera is inherently uncanny, as it presents a world that is both alluring and unsettling, familiar and yet profoundly alien.

This unsettling quality is perhaps most evident in the opera's depiction of death. Dolar explores the recurring themes of mortality, sacrifice, and revenge that permeate the operatic canon, revealing how these themes resonate with our own fears and anxieties about our own demise.

The Shadowy Figure of the Opera Singer

Central to the uncanny nature of opera is the figure of the opera singer. Dolar examines the transformative power of the voice, the ability of a singer to embody multiple characters and emotions, often in a single performance. This vocal virtuosity, coupled with the singer's physical presence, creates a sense of awe and wonder that further contributes to the opera's uncanny atmosphere.

Dolar also delves into the psychological motivations of opera singers, exploring the complex relationship between performer and audience. He argues that the singer is not merely a conduit for the composer's intentions but rather an active participant in the creation of the performance, injecting their own experiences and interpretations into the role.

Opera's Legacy and Relevance

Dolar's analysis of opera extends beyond the confines of the opera house. He explores the influence of opera on other art forms, including film, literature, and contemporary music. He argues that opera's enduring appeal lies in its ability to tap into universal human experiences, allowing us to explore our own emotions and desires through the catharsis of a live performance.

"Opera's Second Death" is a captivating and thought-provoking journey into the enigmatic world of opera. Dolar's insights illuminate the unique characteristics of this art form, showcasing its power to both enchant and unsettle. Through his analysis of the uncanny, he uncovers the profound connection between opera and the human psyche, revealing its enduring relevance in our contemporary world.

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Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of opera with "Opera's Second Death" by Mladen Dolar. Free Download your copy today and embark on an unforgettable journey into the depths of human emotion and artistic expression.

Opera's Second Death

by Mladen Dolar

4.2 out of 5