History Myth and Music

Thomas Mann's response to the crisis of modernity and the catastrophe of fascism is defined by the thematic matrix of history myth and music: this book is the first to explore the interrelations of the three -- and the first study to approach the music in Mann's fiction through narrative theory. Discussion centers on Mann's preoccupation with redemption which begins with his Nietzschean critique of Wagner's redemption motifs and culminates in his radical questioning of the Christian myth in Doctor Faustus. The argument is developed through reference to four seminal figures Nietzsche Wagner Weber and Tillich; while the centrality of Nietzsche and Wagner to Mann is well known Max Weber has received less attention and Paul Tillich has been virtually ignored in the criticism. This is the first study to make Tillich Mann's consultant for the theological matters in Doctor Faustus central to a reading of the novel. SUSAN SCAFF is Assistant Professor of Humanities at San Jose State University California.