Composer

:

Engelbert Humperdinck

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1905

Average_duration

:

104:44

Die Heirat wider Willen (Marriage against one's will) is an opera composed by Engelbert Humperdinck, with a libretto by Ernst von Wolzogen. The opera was composed in 1905 and premiered on December 21, 1905, at the Neues Theater in Leipzig, Germany. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of Baron Kronthal, who is in love with the Countess von Eberbach. However, the Countess is engaged to another man, Baron von Wildenhaim. In order to win the Countess's heart, Baron Kronthal pretends to be a servant and enters into the service of the Countess's father, the Count von Eberbach. The Countess, unaware of Baron Kronthal's true identity, falls in love with him. However, when the truth is revealed, the Countess is heartbroken and decides to marry Baron von Wildenhaim. In the end, Baron Kronthal and the Countess are reunited, and they are able to marry each other. The opera is divided into three acts, with each act consisting of several scenes. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the love triangle between Baron Kronthal, the Countess von Eberbach, and Baron von Wildenhaim. The second act focuses on Baron Kronthal's deception and the Countess's growing feelings for him. The third act resolves the conflict and brings the two lovers together. The music of Die Heirat wider Willen is characterized by its lyrical melodies and lush orchestration. Humperdinck's use of leitmotifs, or recurring musical themes, helps to unify the opera and give it a sense of coherence. The opera also features several ensemble numbers, including a duet between Baron Kronthal and the Countess, and a quartet in which all four main characters sing together. Die Heirat wider Willen was well-received at its premiere and has since become one of Humperdinck's most popular operas. Its themes of love, deception, and mistaken identity continue to resonate with audiences today.

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