The contributions to this handbook bring together a full-length study of
Elektra in English. The volume examines the many facets of one of
Richard Strauss's most complex operas. First, P. E. Easterling surveys
the mythological background, while Karen Forsyth discusses
Hofmannsthal's adaptation of his sources. The second part brings the
music to the fore. Derrick Puffett offers an introductory essay and
synopsis; Arnold Whittall considers the tonal and dramatic structure of
the composition; Tethys Carpenter explores the musical language of the
work in detail, with special focus given to part of the Klytaemnestra
scene. The third part of the volume offers two contrasting critical
essays: Carolyn Abbate provides an interpretation informed by her recent
work on narrative, and Robin Holloway analyses Strauss's orchestration
of the opera. The book also contains a discography and an appendix of
excerpts from the Strauss-Hofmannsthal correspondence.