Parsifal: Sources and Mythologies: a Talk with Thomas Launius

This talk will explore the origins and evolution of the Grail Legends, beginning with their first written form in the late 12th and early 13th centuries, created as a response to the early decline of Christianity in Europe. We’ll then examine how these legends resurfaced between 1775 and 1900, during a time of social upheaval and the rise of German cultural identity, inspiring new artistic and psychological interpretations. The ancient tradition of Storytelling in Europe, both in its original oral form and then later as written, understood that a Storyteller never “created” a story, but rather, inherited it, and then it was their sacred responsibility to be faithful to that original inheritance while at the same time developing it to speak authentically to a new generation. Turning towards Wagner’s Parsifal, we will explore some of the ways Wagner adapted and shaped the material he inherited and how the final result has its own special message.

About the speaker: Thomas Launius was born into a military family and spent his early years living in England, Germany, Japan, and the United States. He came of age in Louisiana and earned a degree in Physics from Louisiana State University, along with a minor in Vocal Performance. Trained as a tenor, he sang in university and regional opera productions for five years before turning to the academic study of story and symbol. He later earned a doctorate in Mythology and spent over three decades as a professional storyteller and speaker.

In 2017, Thomas fulfilled a lifelong dream by relocating to Bavaria, not far from Munich. Since 2019, he has worked as a professional tour guide, specializing in historically rich and mythologically resonant experiences throughout Munich, Salzburg, and especially Neuschwanstein Castle—the fairytale fortress built by King Ludwig II as a tribute to Richard Wagner. Drawing on his background in mythology, music, and narrative craft, Thomas creates immersive tours that bring to life the operatic vision behind the castle’s creation and illuminate the deep connections between Wagner’s works and the cultural landscape of Bavaria.

This discussion will be followed by an extended audience Q&A and discussion session.