About this episode
The episode discusses Handel's opera 'Semele' and its themes of love, ambition, and divine intrigue.
It might at first sound like it would be nice to be the lover of the king of the Olympian gods, attended by divine spirits, and living in a luxurious palace among the clouds. But this happily-ever-after turns sour after Princess Semele asks Jupiter for the gift of immortality. After a bit of intrigue amongst the gods–not least among them Jupiter’s resourceful and ruthless wife Juno–disaster strikes the princess Semele and her dreams are reduced to ashes. An “English opera” from the later career of Baroque master, George Frideric Handel, Semele teems with engaging arias as well as sumptuous choral pieces. Inspired by a tale told by Ovid, Handel and his librettist, William Congreve crafted a work of art that beguiles and entertains supremely. Hosted by Pat and Kathleen For more cultural and arts commentary by Kathleen Van De Wille, visit Constructive Criticism on Substack.
People in this episode
Hosts: Pat, Kathleen
Topics covered
- opera
- Baroque music
- Greek mythology
- Handel
- cultural commentary
Keywords
- Semele
- Handel
- opera
- Greek mythology
- Baroque
- Jupiter
- Juno
- William Congreve
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Constructive Criticism
Books & works: Semele
Places: Olympian, England
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