Cultural Differences: French musical traditions and tastes differed significantly from those of Germany, where Wagner's music had found acclaim. French audiences were accustomed to operas with lighter melodies, simpler harmonic structures, and more conventional musical forms. Wagner's complex orchestral textures, chromaticism, and leitmotif technique were considered too radical and unmelodic for French sensibilities.
National Rivalry: The period coinciding with the premiere of "Tannhäuser" was marked by heightened tensions between France and Germany. The two nations had recently been at war, and animosity lingered. Wagner's association with German culture and his reputation as a musical innovator associated with German nationalism stirred patriotic resistance among French audiences.
Ballet Controversy: The inclusion of a ballet scene in the second act of "Tannhäuser" sparked outrage. The scene, which featured scantily clad dancers and was perceived as excessive, was deemed inappropriate and disrespectful by many French spectators. Protests erupted during this section, and the situation grew increasingly chaotic.
Opposition to Wagner's Theories: Wagner's writings and theories on music, which emphasized Gesamtkunstwerk (total artwork) and the supremacy of music over text, were also subjects of criticism in France. French critics and musicians rejected his approach, viewing it as an infringement on traditional operatic conventions.
Rival Musical Factions: The Parisian musical scene was divided between supporters of traditional French opera and proponents of newer trends. Wagner's music represented an intrusion into the established musical landscape, and conservative factions within the Parisian opera world saw him as a threat. This added to the hostility directed toward "Tannhäuser."
Poor Adaptation: It is also worth mentioning that the French adaptation of the libretto was not well received. The translation was criticized for its poor quality, and some felt that it did not capture the essence of Wagner's original text.
The combination of cultural differences, national rivalries, perceived artistic excesses, and resistance to Wagner's musical innovations led to the tumultuous reception of "Tannhäuser" in Paris. Despite the negative reaction at its premiere, the opera has since gained wider acceptance and is now recognized as one of Wagner's significant works.