Problem
Read Rhinegold, part one of The Ring of the Nibelung.
Richard Wagner uses music to tell his story by associating characters, objects, places, and ideas with musical themes called motifs. For instance, there is a motif for Nature which later transforms into the Rhine River motif and the Rainbow Bridge motif. As you go through the notes, be sure to listen to the musical links. If you aren't a fan of classical music, don't worry; none of them are very long, but listening to the music will help you understand the story and characters (and to answer the questions below).
A. What must Alberich do to gain the power of the ring? What does he do when he loses it?
B. What do the giants accomplish for the gods? What was their payment supposed to be?
C. What musical themes describe Loge? How does this represent his character?
D. What is the significance of Wotan's spear?
E. What warning does Erda give? (be sure to read the notes carefully)
F. What musical theme resembles that of Valhalla? Why is this significant in the story?