Varieties of Love
Unlike Wotan who is seemingly fixated at conjuring up conclusions about all sorts of issues, Brünnhilde takes on such issues in an instinctive and sympathetic manner. Soon after Wotan expresses harsh reprimands towards Brünnhilde’s minor acts of rebellion, Brünnhilde proceeded with an act of full defiance of Wotan which was inspired in no small part by Siegmund’s determination. This chapter attempts to explain how Brünnhilde’s actions involve her realization to the reality and power of love, and how such recognition is brought about by Siegmund’s love for Sieglinde, Wotan’s love for Siegmund, Brünnhilde’s own love for Siegmund, and Brünnhilde’s love for Wotan. Brünnhilde decides to defy Wotan’s orders by providing Siegmund with protection without stating the exact basis for her decision. More importantly, this chapter enumerates three different forms of love: benevolent love, empathic or compassionate love, and erotic love.
Keywords: Wotan, Brünnhilde, Siegmund, Sieglinde, love, benevolent love, empathic love, compassionate love, erotic love
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