Composer

:

Antonio Caldara

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Average_duration

:

14:43

Antonio Caldara's "Medea in Corinto" is an opera seria in three acts. It was composed in 1718 and premiered in Venice at the Teatro San Giovanni Grisostomo. The libretto was written by Apostolo Zeno and adapted from Euripides' tragedy "Medea." The opera tells the story of Medea, a sorceress who has been abandoned by her husband, Jason, for a younger woman. Medea seeks revenge on Jason by killing their children and his new bride. The opera explores themes of love, betrayal, and revenge. The first act opens with a chorus of Corinthian women lamenting the arrival of Medea in their city. Medea is seeking refuge from her enemies and is disguised as a priestess of Diana. She is welcomed by King Creon, who offers her protection. Medea meets Jason, who is now married to Creon's daughter, Creusa. Medea is consumed by jealousy and vows to take revenge on Jason. The second act begins with a duet between Jason and Creusa, expressing their love for each other. Medea overhears their conversation and becomes even more enraged. She summons the spirits of Hecate and the Furies to aid her in her revenge. Medea poisons Creusa and kills her own children, blaming Jason for their deaths. The final act opens with a chorus of Corinthian women mourning the deaths of Creusa and the children. Medea appears, covered in blood, and confesses to the murders. She is arrested and sentenced to death, but she escapes on a chariot pulled by dragons, leaving Jason to face the consequences of his actions. Caldara's music is characterized by its dramatic intensity and emotional depth. The arias are often accompanied by virtuosic instrumental solos, showcasing the talents of the performers. The opera also features elaborate choruses, which provide commentary on the action and add to the overall grandeur of the production. Overall, "Medea in Corinto" is a powerful and tragic opera that explores the darker aspects of human nature. Caldara's music perfectly captures the emotional turmoil of the characters, making it a masterpiece of the opera seria genre.

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