Chapter 17

Wagner's influence and his successors--Engelbert Humperdinck--Myths and fairy tales--Origin of "Hänsel und Gretel"--First performances-- An application of Wagnerian principles--The prelude--The Prayer Theme --The Counter-charm--Theme of Fulfilment--Story of the opera--A relic of an old Christmas song--Theme of the Witch--The Theme of Promise-- "Ring around a Rosy"--The "Knusperwalzer."