Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: opera
Song Meaning of “Das Rheingold, WWV 86A: “Ohe! Ohe! Schreckliche Schlange”” by Richard Wagner
“Ohe! Ohe! Schreckliche Schlange” is an opera written by Richard Wagner that was composed in 1869 and first performed in 1870. It tells the story of the Rhinegold, a mysterious gold guarded by a dragon called Fafner. As the story unfolds, three Rhinedaughters offer their gems to the Gods in order to win the golden treasure. In this aria, the focus of the music shifts to the horrific snake-like dragon as he rears his terrifying head.
The song is filled with both fear and menace as Wagner paints a picture of Fafner and his might. Fafner is envisioned as a powerful force that no mortal dares to challenge. His piercing screeches send shivers down the spine of all who hear them. His presence is overwhelming and his gargantuan maw is enough to make the bravest of mortals shake in terror.
However, this aria also serves as a warning. If those who seek the Rhinegold do not proceed with caution, they will have to face the wrath of Fafner. He is a guardian of the precious treasure and will not hesitate to defend it if he feels his domain is threatened.
The aria of “Ohe! Ohe! Schreckliche Schlange” serves as a reminder that Fafner must not be taken lightly.