The Figure of Dido in French Drama and Music

Presents a study of common themes and differences in various dramatic and musical versions of the story of Dido. This book provides a coherent examination of these works which are linked by theme.

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This title presents a study of common themes and differences in various dramatic and musical versions of the story of Dido. This book breaks new ground in undertaking a coherent examination of these works which are linked by theme. They all involve text and words intended for musical and dramatic performance. This study first looks at the broader European context before the French dramas, cantatas and operas are analysed in detail. Throughout, connections and points of differences are shown, with appropriate cross-referencing. What emerges is a wide range of ways to tell and interpret a story and how to characterize the main players and their emotions. The various interpretations show an intriguing and surprising degree of individuality on the part of these writers and composers.