Composer

:

Gaetano Donizetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1837

Average_duration

:

131:20

Movement_count

:

20

Movement ....

"Roberto Devereux" is an opera composed by Gaetano Donizetti in 1837. The plot is based on the life of Robert Devereux, the second Earl of Essex, who was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I of England. The opera is set in the late 16th century, during the reign of Elizabeth I. The story revolves around the love triangle between Roberto Devereux, Queen Elizabeth I, and Sara, the wife of the Duke of Nottingham. Roberto is in love with Sara, but she is married to his best friend, the Duke of Nottingham. Queen Elizabeth I is also in love with Roberto, but he does not return her affections. The opera begins with Roberto being accused of treason and sentenced to death. Queen Elizabeth I is torn between her love for Roberto and her duty to uphold the law. She ultimately decides to spare his life, but Roberto is unable to accept his pardon and chooses to die instead. The music of "Roberto Devereux" is characterized by Donizetti's signature bel canto style, with beautiful melodies and intricate vocal lines. The opera features several memorable arias, including "All'afflitto è dolce il pianto" and "Bagnato il sen di lagrime." "Roberto Devereux" premiered on October 29, 1837, at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, Italy. The opera was a success and was quickly staged in other cities throughout Europe. It was also performed in the United States, where it was a popular choice for opera companies in the 19th century. The movements of "Roberto Devereux" are divided into three acts, with a total running time of approximately two and a half hours. The first act sets up the love triangle between Roberto, Queen Elizabeth I, and Sara. The second act focuses on Roberto's trial and his decision to die rather than accept a pardon. The third act features Roberto's final moments and Queen Elizabeth I's grief over his death. Overall, "Roberto Devereux" is a powerful and emotional opera that showcases Donizetti's mastery of the bel canto style. Its themes of love, loyalty, and duty continue to resonate with audiences today.

More....