Abstract
Following the Holocaust's horrors, the arts have become vital channels for addressing the lasting trauma, providing avenues for remembrance, reflection, and expression. Opera, distinguished by its grandeur and emotional depth, uniquely engages with the Holocaust, offering a blend of personal narrative and universal resonance. This thesis investigates Holocaust operas, recognizing them as significant contributions to musical expression, as they navigate themes of survival, memory, and resilience. Through a thorough examination of key works: Der Kaiser von Atlantis, The Passenger, The Diary of Anne Frank, Sophie’s Choice, and Eva and the Angel of Death, this Independent Study examines how opera intersects with historical memory. By synthesizing existing research and offering fresh insights into thematic trends, this study aims to deepen our understanding of Holocaust operas as a cohesive field of study within cultural and historical contexts. This interdisciplinary exploration enhances our appreciation of opera's role in addressing, commemorating, and educating current and future generations on the Holocaust.
Advisor
Freeze, Timothy
Department
Music
Recommended Citation
Weiss, Lilah, "Holocaust Memory through Operatic Performance: An Examination of the Evolving Representation of the Holocaust in Operas through the 20th and 21st Centuries" (2024). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 10945.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/10945
Disciplines
Arts and Humanities
Keywords
Holocaust, opera, memory
Publication Date
2024
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2024 Lilah Weiss