Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: opera
Song Meaning of “Wagner: Rienzi, WWV 49, Act 1 Scene 2: “Rienzi, du bist fürchterlich!” (Adriano, Rienzi, Irene)” by Richard Wagner
The stirring aria “Rienzi, Du bist Fürchterlich!” from Act I of Richard Wagner’s opera “Rienzi” is a testament to the titular character’s dramatic potential and power. Through this aria, Wagner shows the audience the great leader that Rienzi will become, highlighting his commanding presence and awe-inspiring demeanor.
The duet between Adriano and the protagonist, Rienzi, reflects their mutual admiration of one another. Both have acknowledged Rienzi’s potential, and the chorus reflects this sentiment as they repeat Rienzi’s name in awe of his authority. In his reponse, Rienzi prophetically references the great legacy he will build and calls on the people to step forward and support him.
The third voice in the aria is Irene, Rienzi’s beloved. She is moved by this call to action and sings in support of her beloved. Irene knows that his ambitions will come to fruition, and her feelings of adoration and love come flooding through in her voice.
The aria itself is an ode to the capaciousness of love and loyalty – regardless of how daunting the task may seem, those that believe in one another and stand together can achieve great things. As proclaimed in the words of Rienzi, “Rienzi, du bist fürchterlich!”