''The ideal interpreter of the Ring ... a fascinating and valuable study ... absorbing and convincing'' Sunday TimesThe Ring of the Nibelung is one of the greatest works of art created in modern times. Roger Scruton''s brilliant and passionate exploration of the drama, music, symbolism and philosophy of Wagner''s masterpiece - with its themes of love, death, sacrifice and freedom - shows how, ultimately, it expresses the truth about the human condition. ''Highly original and penetrating ... tremendous'' Tim Blanning, Literary Review''A rich, historical account ... After reading this book, only the most unadventurous reader would turn down the chance to see Wagner''s masterpiece'' Economist''A brilliant gallop through the master''s religious, musical and philosophical contexts'' Sue Prideaux, Spectator''Scruton is one of the finest philosopher-musicians since Schopenhauer'' Jonathan Gaisman, Standpoint