Composer

:

Charles Gounod

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1852 - 1854

Publication Date

:

1854

First Performance

:

Oct 18, 1854

"La nonne sanglante" is an opera composed by Charles Gounod, with a libretto by Eugène Scribe and Germain Delavigne. The opera was composed in 1854, but it was not premiered until 1890, after Gounod's death. The opera is based on a play by Matthew Lewis, "The Monk," which was a popular Gothic novel in the late 18th century. The plot of "La nonne sanglante" revolves around a young nobleman, Rodolphe, who falls in love with a young woman, Agnès. However, Agnès is already betrothed to another man, and her father forbids her from seeing Rodolphe. In his despair, Rodolphe turns to the supernatural, and he makes a pact with the devil to win Agnès's love. The devil tells Rodolphe that he must sacrifice a nun in order to win Agnès's love. Rodolphe agrees, and he sets out to find a nun to sacrifice. He comes across a convent where a nun, Blanche, is about to take her final vows. Rodolphe kidnaps Blanche and takes her to a remote location to sacrifice her. However, Blanche is not an ordinary nun. She is the ghost of a nun who was murdered by her lover, and she has returned to seek revenge. Blanche haunts Rodolphe and his accomplices, and she ultimately causes their downfall. "La nonne sanglante" is a four-act opera, and it features a number of memorable musical movements. The opera opens with a haunting overture that sets the tone for the supernatural elements of the story. The opera also features a number of arias and duets that showcase Gounod's skill as a composer. One of the most notable characteristics of "La nonne sanglante" is its Gothic atmosphere. The opera is filled with supernatural elements, including ghosts, demons, and witches. The opera also features a number of dark and brooding musical themes that add to the Gothic atmosphere. Overall, "La nonne sanglante" is a fascinating opera that showcases Gounod's skill as a composer. While it was not well-received at its premiere, it has since become a cult classic among opera fans.

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