Abstract
Marshall and Keiler present a selection from Franz Liszt, Essays on Opera and Drama, a new translation of Dramaturgische Blatter. Plans for a publication in book form, however, under the tide Dramaturgiscbe Blatter, did not materialize at the time. While each essay bears the name of a single musical work as its title, they all touch upon and develop many other topics, as well. Indeed, Liszt had much larger aims for them than simply to provide a general introduction for a prospective audience or a precis for those who could not attend a performance. In all of his essays, his observations and insights range wide and far, his intellectual prowess and incisive observations never fail to impress, and the tact of even his criticism shows his nurturing, encouraging spirit toward his fellow composers, past and present. The four essays presented here serve as outstanding examples of the various aspects and purposes that Liszt pursued.