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Judith Gautier (1845-1917), daughter of the esteemed French poet and novelist Théophile Gautier, was a distinguished writer and poet in her own right. Embracing her father's literary legacy, she cultivated a profound knowledge of the arts and developed an extensive literary oeuvre that is celebrated for its lyrical style and rich cultural references. Her literary contributions extend to theatre, poetry, and criticism, but one of her notable works as a critic is 'Richard Wagner and His Poetical Work, from "Rienzi" to "Parsifal"' - a comprehensive analysis of the operas of the famed German composer, which underscores her deep appreciation for Wagner's artistic vision and her scholarly approach to his music dramas. Gautier's writing often bridged the cultural divide between East and West, exemplified by her profound interest in and translations of Oriental poetry. Her nuanced understanding of music and literature was cultivated through her own worldly experiences and literary endeavors. Immersed within the Parisian intellectual circle of the late 19th century, she became one of the salient women intellectuals of that era, distinguished by a literary style that imbued elegance, erudition, and often an exotic charm reflective of her fascination with far-flung cultures. Her authored works resonate with the intricate tapestry of themes encompassing romance, mysticism, and the pursuit of the aesthetic, distinctive attributes that compose the scholarly and imaginative fabric of her written legacy.
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