Composer

:

Marc-Antoine Charpentier

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1693

Average_duration

:

188:08

Movement_count

:

39

Movement ....

Médée is an opera composed by Marc-Antoine Charpentier in 1693. The plot is based on the Greek myth of Medea, who seeks revenge on her husband Jason after he abandons her for a younger woman. The opera is divided into five acts and features a libretto by Thomas Corneille. The premiere of Médée took place at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal in Paris on December 4, 1693. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it quickly became one of Charpentier's most popular works. The first movement of Médée is a prologue, which sets the stage for the rest of the opera. The prologue features a chorus of nymphs and shepherds who sing of the power of love and the dangers of jealousy. The second movement introduces the character of Médée, who is portrayed as a powerful sorceress. Médée sings of her love for Jason and her anger at his betrayal. The third movement features a duet between Jason and his new wife, Créuse. The duet is interrupted by Médée, who appears in a rage and threatens to kill both Jason and Créuse. The fourth movement features a chorus of Corinthian women who sing of the dangers of love and the power of jealousy. The fifth and final movement of Médée is a tragic finale. Médée, consumed by her anger and jealousy, kills her own children in order to punish Jason. The opera ends with Médée fleeing the scene, leaving Jason to mourn the loss of his children. Overall, Médée is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of love, jealousy, and revenge. Charpentier's music is both beautiful and haunting, and the opera remains a classic of the Baroque era.

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