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Ep. 57 Xerxes By Handel

Opera For Everyone

CHAPTER

Unveiling Deception: The Intrigues of Princess Amastra

The chapter unfolds the complexities of Princess Amastra's character as she uncovers truths while disguised as a man in Handel's opera Xerxes. It explores the gender-bending castrati roles and the historical context of high male voices in opera, setting the stage for examining romantic dynamics and character developments. Additionally, it delves into the contrast between European masculinity and despotic rule in eastern empires, intertwined with the narrative's intentional androgyny and themes of absolutism.

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