Chapter XVII · "Hänsel und Gretel"

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."