Composer

:

Giovanni Paisiello

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Average_duration

:

153:04

'Proserpine' is an opera in three acts composed by Giovanni Paisiello. The opera was composed in 1780 and premiered on February 28, 1781, at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples. The libretto was written by Carlo Francesco Badini, based on the myth of Proserpine, the daughter of Ceres, who was abducted by Pluto, the god of the underworld. The first act of the opera opens with a chorus of nymphs and shepherds celebrating the arrival of spring. Proserpine, the daughter of Ceres, is in love with the shepherd Eumene, but her mother has arranged for her to marry the wealthy and powerful prince Aronte. Proserpine is torn between her love for Eumene and her duty to her mother. In the second act, Pluto, the god of the underworld, appears and abducts Proserpine. Ceres, in despair, searches for her daughter and eventually discovers that Pluto has taken her to the underworld. Ceres begs Pluto to release Proserpine, but he refuses, insisting that she must stay with him as his queen. The final act of the opera sees Eumene and Aronte both attempting to rescue Proserpine from the underworld. Eumene is successful, and Proserpine is reunited with her mother. Pluto, however, is furious and threatens to destroy the world. Ceres intervenes and convinces Pluto to spare the world in exchange for Proserpine spending half the year with him in the underworld. 'Proserpine' is characterized by its beautiful melodies and lyrical arias. The opera is also notable for its use of chorus, which is used to great effect in the opening and closing scenes of each act. The music is typical of the classical period, with clear, simple melodies and elegant harmonies. Overall, 'Proserpine' is a beautiful and moving opera that tells a timeless story of love, duty, and sacrifice. Its premiere in Naples was a great success, and the opera went on to be performed throughout Europe in the years that followed. Today, it remains a beloved work of classical music and a testament to the enduring power of opera.

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