The Temptation of Paul Hindemith

Book excerpt: Focuses on the five-tiered representational structure in which the hermit's conflict and vindication present themselves through Hindemith's opera. Bruhn argues that the opera presents something akin to a confession of the composer's inner conflicts and his decision not to become involved in the Nazi confrontation. Three sections discuss: the dilemma of social responsibility vs. the eremitic quest in the lives of Saint Antony of Egypt, the fictional painter Mathis, and Paul Hindemith; hermits, anchorites, and ascetics as portrayed in literature, art, and music; and the form, content, and interpretation of Mathis der Maler. Appendices include synopses and translations of several operas by Hindemith. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR