NOSFERATU

Introduction to Richard Wagner's music through the German filmdirector Werner Herzog:

NOSFERATU - PART 2


THE RHINEGOLD

THE RHINEDAUGHTERS


Synopsis:

Alberich, a dwarf from the underground caverns of Nibelheim, steals gold from the Rhinedaughters, a deed which can only be achieved by renouncing love. Alberich then makes a ring from the gold which gives its owner great power. Meanwhile Wotan, ruler of the gods, searches for a way to pay the giants Fafner and Fasolt for building his new fortress, Valhalla. He had promised to give them Freia, goddess of youth and love, but when she leaves with them, the gods begin to age. Wotan searches for another means of payment. With the help of Loge, god of fire and cunning, he tricks Alberich into surrendering the ring, whereupon Alberich puts a curse on whoever owns it. Wotan gives the ring to the giants, and Alberich's curse strikes immediately: Fafner kills Fasolt in order to become the sole possessor of the ring, as the gods march into their majestic new home.