Composer

:

Francesco Provenzale

Genre

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1672

Average_duration

:

02:26

"Lo schiava di sua moglie" is an opera in three acts composed by Francesco Provenzale, an Italian composer of the Baroque era. The opera was first performed in Naples in 1674 and was well-received by audiences of the time. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of Don Giulio, a wealthy nobleman who is married to Donna Isabella. Don Giulio is infatuated with his slave girl, Rosaura, and begins to neglect his wife in favor of her. Donna Isabella, feeling neglected and jealous, decides to take revenge on her husband by pretending to be in love with Rosaura and convincing her to betray Don Giulio. The first act of the opera sets the scene and introduces the characters. Don Giulio is shown to be a wealthy and powerful man, while Donna Isabella is portrayed as a jealous and vengeful woman. Rosaura is introduced as a beautiful and innocent slave girl who is unaware of the power struggle between her master and mistress. The second act of the opera focuses on the growing tension between Don Giulio and Donna Isabella, as well as the developing relationship between Rosaura and Donna Isabella. Rosaura is torn between her loyalty to Don Giulio and her growing feelings for Donna Isabella, while Donna Isabella uses her newfound power over Rosaura to manipulate her husband. The final act of the opera sees the resolution of the plot, as Donna Isabella's plan to humiliate Don Giulio is revealed and Rosaura is forced to choose between her loyalty to her master and her love for Donna Isabella. In the end, Don Giulio is left alone and humiliated, while Rosaura and Donna Isabella are free to pursue their own desires. "Lo schiava di sua moglie" is characterized by its use of recitative and aria, which were common forms of musical expression in the Baroque era. The opera also features a number of duets and ensemble pieces, which showcase Provenzale's skill in composing for multiple voices. Overall, "Lo schiava di sua moglie" is a compelling and dramatic opera that explores themes of power, jealousy, and betrayal. Its premiere in Naples in 1674 marked a significant moment in the development of Italian opera, and it remains a popular work among opera enthusiasts today.

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