Their deeds lose significance and in their place we have their feelings, their emotions, to the great benefit of the operas.

After these works, however, _Hans Sachs_ (Die Meistersinger) appeared, and although he is not mythical at all he is a fine figure nevertheless.

But in this case the plot is of little account, for the interest lies mainly in the emotions--the only thing, it appears, which music with its divine language ought to express.
It is true that music makes it possible to simplify dramatic action and it gives a chance, as well, for the free expression and play of sentiments, emotions and passions.

In addition, music makes possible pantomimic scenes which could not be done otherwise, and the music itself flows more easily under such conditions.

But that does not mean that such conditions are indispensable for music.