Composer

:

Alessandro Scarlatti

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Cantata

Average_duration

:

14:03

Movement_count

:

8

Movement ....

Alessandro Scarlatti's opera 'Cleopatra, mia reina Marc'Antonio e Cleopatra' was composed in 1709 and premiered in Rome. The opera is divided into three acts and features a libretto by Domenico Lalli. The first act opens with Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, lamenting the loss of her lover, Julius Caesar. She is then introduced to Marc Antony, a Roman general who has come to Egypt to seek her alliance. Cleopatra and Marc Antony fall in love, but their relationship is threatened by political tensions between Rome and Egypt. The second act sees Marc Antony returning to Rome, leaving Cleopatra behind. She is left to deal with the betrayal of her confidante, Arsace, who has sided with Rome. Meanwhile, Marc Antony is torn between his love for Cleopatra and his duty to Rome. In the final act, Cleopatra and Marc Antony reunite in Egypt, but their happiness is short-lived as they are defeated by the Roman army. The opera ends with Cleopatra's suicide, followed by Marc Antony's death. Scarlatti's music in 'Cleopatra, mia reina Marc'Antonio e Cleopatra' is characterized by its use of recitative and aria. The recitative is used to advance the plot and convey dialogue, while the arias allow for emotional expression and character development. The music is also notable for its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which add to the dramatic tension of the opera. Overall, 'Cleopatra, mia reina Marc'Antonio e Cleopatra' is a tragic love story that explores themes of political power, betrayal, and the consequences of passion. Scarlatti's music adds to the emotional depth of the story, making it a compelling opera that continues to be performed today.

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