Composer

:

Charles Gounod

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1876 - 1877

Publication Date

:

1877

First Performance

:

Apr 5, 1877

Cinq Mars is an opera composed by Charles Gounod, with a libretto by Paul Poirson and Louis Gallet. The opera is based on the historical novel "Cinq-Mars" by Alfred de Vigny, which tells the story of the conspiracy of the same name against Cardinal Richelieu, the chief minister of King Louis XIII of France. The opera was composed between 1869 and 1872, and premiered at the Paris Opera on April 5, 1877. It is divided into five acts and features a large cast of characters, including the titular character, Henri de Cinq-Mars, his friend and co-conspirator De Thou, Richelieu, and the king himself. The first act introduces the main characters and sets the stage for the conspiracy. Cinq-Mars and De Thou are introduced as young men who are disillusioned with the state of affairs in France under Richelieu's rule. They hatch a plan to overthrow the cardinal and restore power to the king. The second act focuses on the development of the conspiracy, as Cinq-Mars and De Thou recruit other nobles to their cause. They also begin to develop romantic relationships with two women, Marie and Marion, who are both caught up in the intrigue. The third act sees the conspiracy begin to unravel, as Richelieu becomes aware of the plot and takes steps to thwart it. Cinq-Mars and De Thou are arrested and brought before the king, who is torn between his loyalty to Richelieu and his affection for Cinq-Mars. The fourth act is the climax of the opera, as Cinq-Mars and De Thou are sentenced to death and executed. The final act is a somber epilogue, as the remaining characters reflect on the tragedy that has unfolded. The music of Cinq Mars is characterized by Gounod's signature blend of lyricism and drama. The opera features a number of memorable arias and ensembles, including Cinq-Mars' "O ma lyre immortelle" and the quartet "Ah! Quel jour de fête!" Despite its initial success, Cinq Mars has fallen out of the standard operatic repertoire in recent years. However, it remains a fascinating and engaging work that offers a unique perspective on French history and the human cost of political ambition.

More....