Richard Wagner
Tristan and Isolda: Opera in Three Acts
"Tristan and Isolda: Opera in Three Acts" by Richard Wagner is a music drama composed between 1857 and 1859. Based on a medieval romance, the opera explores profound themes of insatiable human longing and transcendent love beyond death. Wagner drew inspiration from philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer and his muse Mathilde Wesendonck while creating this work. The opera's revolutionary harmony and famous opening "Tristan chord" marked a defining moment in modern music. Its advanced musical language divided early audiences but grew enormously influential, shaping generations of Western classical composers.