'The ideal interpreter of the Ring ... a fascinating and valuable study ... absorbing and convincing' Sunday Times The Ring of the Nibelung is one of the greatest works of art created in modern times. Roger Scruton's brilliant and passionate exploration of the drama music symbolism and philosophy of Wagner's masterpiece - with its themes of love death sacrifice and freedom - shows how ultimately it expresses the truth about the human condition. 'Highly original and penetrating ... tremendous' Tim Blanning Literary Review 'A rich historical account ... After reading this book only the most unadventurous reader would turn down the chance to see Wagner's masterpiece' Economist 'A brilliant gallop through the master's religious musical and philosophical contexts' Sue Prideaux Spectator 'Scruton is one of the finest philosopher-musicians since Schopenhauer' Jonathan Gaisman Standpoint