Gesamtkunstwerk

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Gesamtkunstwerk ("total work of art", or "complete-art work") is a German term attributed to the German opera composer Richard Wagner which refers to an operatic performance which encompasses music, theater, and the visual arts. He felt that in ancient Greek tragedy, these had been fused, but at some point they drifted apart — he was critical of current opera which he felt emphasized the music too heavily and did not contain quality drama.

Literally meaning "synthesis of the arts", the term is also commonly used (especially by Germans) to describe any integration of multiple art forms.

Wagner placed great importance on "mood setting" elements, such as a darkened theater, sound effects, and seating arrangements which focused the attention of audience on the stage, completely immersing them in the imaginary world of the music drama. These concepts were revolutionary at the time, but they have since come to be taken for granted in the modern operatic environment.

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