Madama Butterfly is one of the most popular
operas of all time, despite its disastrous
premiere, after which it was immediately
withdrawn and revised. This guide explores
how and why the libretto was softened to suit
the tastes of European opera-goers, and the
different variants are set out, side by side.
Professor Jean-Pierre Lehmann introduces the
story and shows how the theme of a Japanese
girl deserted by a heartless foreigner became
a classic. Since John Luther Long’s novella –
on which the opera was based – is included
as well, it is possible to judge how successful
Puccini was in catching its essence in his
hauntingly beautiful score.
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'Brilliantly produced and superb value.'
Sunday Times
'All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought.'
Daily Telegraph
'Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series.'
TLS
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