The Waning of Greco-Roman Operas in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Eras.

The article examines the decline of Greco-Roman operas in French opera during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods, focusing on the shift from traditional to contemporary works reflecting political movements. It discusses the political significance of operas set in ancient Rome and Greece, influ...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Illinois Classical Studies Vol. 49; no. 1/2; pp. 212 - 261
Autor principal: Solomon, Jon
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: University of Illinois Press Spring-Fall2024
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Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:The article examines the decline of Greco-Roman operas in French opera during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods, focusing on the shift from traditional to contemporary works reflecting political movements. It discusses the political significance of operas set in ancient Rome and Greece, influenced by revolutionary ideals, and the adaptation of Greek music theory and tragedy in French opera. The text analyzes various operas, including Cherubini's "Médée," which challenged traditional themes of revenge and justice, and the resurgence of classical themes in Napoleonic operas like "Le triomphe de Trajan" and "La vestale." The post-Napoleonic era saw a decline in ancient-themed operas, with a move towards historical fiction and modern themes in opera production.