Composer

:

Thomas Arne

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1740

Publication Date

:

1981

First Performance

:

Aug 1, 1740

Average_duration

:

63:30

"Alfred" is an opera composed by Thomas Arne in 1740. The plot of the opera is based on the story of King Alfred the Great, who is known for his victory over the Danes in the Battle of Edington. The opera is set in the 9th century and tells the story of Alfred's struggle to defend his kingdom against the invading Danes. The opera is divided into three acts and features a libretto by James Thomson. The first act introduces the main characters and sets the stage for the conflict between the Saxons and the Danes. The second act focuses on Alfred's efforts to rally his troops and prepare for battle. The final act features the Battle of Edington and Alfred's eventual victory over the Danes. "Alfred" premiered on January 30, 1740, at the Theatre Royal in Covent Garden, London. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike and helped establish Arne as one of the leading composers of his time. The music of "Alfred" is characterized by its use of English folk melodies and its incorporation of elements of Italian opera. The opera features a number of memorable arias, including "Rule Britannia," which has become one of the most famous patriotic songs in English history. "Alfred" is considered to be one of Arne's most important works and is credited with helping to establish the English opera tradition. The opera's use of English language and themes helped to create a distinctively English style of opera that would influence composers for generations to come.

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