Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1882-1885

'Hulda' is an opera composed by César Franck, a Belgian composer, in 1886. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of Hulda, a young woman who is forced to marry a man she does not love. Hulda is in love with a man named Olaf, but her father has arranged for her to marry a wealthy man named Thorolf. Hulda is torn between her duty to her family and her love for Olaf. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement introduces the characters and sets the stage for the conflict between Hulda and her father. The second movement focuses on Hulda's struggle to choose between Olaf and Thorolf. The final movement resolves the conflict and ends with Hulda and Olaf being reunited. The premiere of 'Hulda' took place on March 31, 1892, at the Théâtre de la Monnaie in Brussels. The opera was not well-received by critics or audiences and was only performed a few times before falling into obscurity. Despite its lack of success, 'Hulda' is notable for its use of Wagnerian techniques, such as leitmotifs and chromatic harmony. Franck was heavily influenced by Wagner and sought to incorporate his ideas into his own compositions. The characters in 'Hulda' are complex and multi-dimensional. Hulda is torn between her duty to her family and her love for Olaf, while Olaf is torn between his love for Hulda and his desire for revenge against Thorolf. Thorolf is portrayed as a wealthy and powerful man who is used to getting what he wants, but who is ultimately unable to win Hulda's love. Overall, 'Hulda' is a complex and emotionally charged opera that explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. While it may not have been successful during its time, it remains an important work in the canon of Belgian opera.

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