The Marriage of Figaro

Definition

The Marriage of Figaro is a comic opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1786, with a libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte. It is based on a play by Pierre Beaumarchais and is recognized for its intricate plot and exploration of themes such as class struggle, love, and fidelity. This work not only showcases the evolution of opera in the 18th century but also reflects significant social changes occurring in Europe at that time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Marriage of Figaro premiered at the Burgtheater in Vienna on May 1, 1786, and quickly gained popularity for its engaging storyline and memorable music.
2. The opera is set in the Count's palace in Seville and takes place over the course of a single day, showcasing the complexities of relationships among the characters.
3. The plot revolves around Figaro's attempts to marry Susanna while navigating the advances of Count Almaviva, who seeks to exercise his feudal rights.
4. Mozart's use of ensemble singing in this opera was innovative, allowing for rich musical interplay between characters and enhancing the dramatic tension.
5. The themes presented in The Marriage of Figaro resonated with the sentiments of the Enlightenment period, reflecting changing attitudes toward authority and social hierarchy.

Review Questions

• How does The Marriage of Figaro reflect the social changes occurring in 18th-century Europe?
  • The Marriage of Figaro reflects social changes by addressing themes such as class struggle and the shifting power dynamics between the aristocracy and common people. The character of Figaro embodies the emerging middle class, while Count Almaviva represents the old feudal order. This contrast highlights the growing tensions in society as traditional hierarchies were challenged, making the opera not just entertaining but also a commentary on contemporary social issues.
• Discuss the role of music and ensemble singing in The Marriage of Figaro and its impact on character development.
  • Music plays a vital role in The Marriage of Figaro, particularly through Mozart's innovative use of ensemble singing. By allowing multiple characters to sing simultaneously, Mozart creates layers of emotion and complexity that deepen character development. For example, during ensemble numbers, conflicting desires are expressed, revealing the intricacies of relationships and adding dramatic tension to the narrative. This technique enhances the overall storytelling and makes each character's motivations more relatable.
• Evaluate how The Marriage of Figaro fits into the broader context of opera as an art form during the 18th century and its influence on future works.
  • The Marriage of Figaro is significant in the context of 18th-century opera as it marks a transition towards more complex characters and sophisticated storytelling. It set a precedent for blending serious themes with comedic elements, influencing future composers like Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Wagner. The successful integration of social commentary within an entertaining framework helped pave the way for operas that explored deeper human emotions and societal issues, ultimately shaping the evolution of opera into a more reflective art form.

Related terms

Beaumarchais: Pierre Beaumarchais was a French playwright and businessman known for his plays, particularly 'The Barber of Seville' and 'The Marriage of Figaro', which challenged social norms and highlighted class conflicts.

Opera Buffa: Opera Buffa is a genre of comic opera that emerged in the 18th century, characterized by light-hearted themes and humorous situations, often involving everyday characters.

Lorenzo Da Ponte: Lorenzo Da Ponte was an Italian librettist who collaborated with Mozart on several operas, including 'The Marriage of Figaro', 'Don Giovanni', and 'Così fan tutte'.