Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of December 1, 1873

Overview

R. works while Hoffmann, now less stubborn, joins the household at lunch and later returns for another cordial conversation. The diarist has written him a friendly note, and Hoffmann proves open-minded despite ongoing uncertainty about the project. He also provides an amusing account of the Oberammergau Passion Play, then leaves for Coburg to consult the scene painters there.

Content

Monday, December 1:

R. works. At lunch the painter Hoffmann, to whom I wrote a few friendly words, and who is now less stubbornly insisting on everything. No news from anywhere in the whole world about our undertaking, and much vexation with the house.

In the evening Hoffmann again, who interests us with his description of the Oberammergau Passion Play in all its ridiculous affectation. We part very cordially, and he goes off to Coburg to talk to the scene painters there. He leaves us with the impression of a very decent, open-minded man.