Tannhäuser (1913) Plot Summary Explained

Release, runtime and language

1913 · 40 mins

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Directed by

Lucius Henderson

Starring

William Russell, Florence La Badie, Burton Law, James Cruze, Marguerite Snow

Based on Wagner’s opera, this three‑reel drama follows wandering minstrel Tannhäuser who wins the love of Elizabeth, the Landgrave’s niece. Enchanted by Venus, he retreats to the sensual Venusberg, then returns to the court and praises her, provoking outrage. Prayer and Elizabeth’s intercession break the spell; he becomes a monk and journeys to Rome for absolution while Elizabeth waits, growing frail.