The men of the Roman army have discovered that during their absence their wives have faithlessly betrayed them – all but Lucretia. The young prince Tarquinius plots to test her fidelity. Hauntingly beautiful music is married to an ancient Roman tale.

It was a combination of economic realities and aesthetic preferences that encouraged Britten to develop the concept for Lucretia. In the opera, he employs a small cast without chorus and an orchestra of just thirteen players. There is, however, no loss of color and atmosphere – indeed the pared-down textures produced an intensification of Britten’s operatic vision to realize this intense and dramatic story.

Lucretia was first presented in 1946 at the Glyndebourne Festival in England. The story is simple and brutally direct. The solder Tarquinius vows to steal the honor of Lucretia, who is known to be the most virtuous woman in Rome. The story is based on an actual historical event that occurred in ancient Rome around 500 B.C. This event is believed to be the impetus for the founding of the Roman republic, replacing the monarchy that had been in place for centuries. Throughout history, political figures (in this case, Junius) have used tragic personal events to fuel rebellion and change.

There is a wonderful simplicity in the life of the women in this opera. The beautiful calmness of the women contrasts with the harshness of the world of the men. Britten chose to write for a lower voice in the leading female role – probably because lower voices seem much calmer and more grounded. A higher voice wouldn’t give Lucretia the gravitas to convey the easy and comfortable relationship she has with her husband Collatinus.

The story of Lucretia is timeless, as many opera stories are. It deals with someone whose whole life and worldview is shattered by an act of violence. The theatricality of the opera and the role of Lucretia have incredible appeal. While you may not be familiar with this opera, it will definitely speak to you on its own terms.

Renay Conlin