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Salome
by Richard Strauss
Judea, A.D. 30. From the moonlit
terrace of King Herod's palace, Narraboth, captain of the
guard, gazes rapturously inside at the Princess Salome, who
is feasting with her stepfather and his court. The voice
of the prophet Jochanaan echoes from a deep cistern, where
he is imprisoned by the king, who fears him. Salome, bored
with Herod's lechery and his coarse guests, rushes out for
fresh air and becomes curious when she hears Jochanaan curse
Herodias, her mother. When the soldiers refuse to bring Jochanaan
to her, Salome turns her wiles on Narraboth, who orders that
Jochanaan be summoned. Salome is fascinated by the prophet's
deathly pallor and pours out her uncontrollable desire to
touch him. The prophet rejects her, speaking of the Son of
God who will come to save mankind. When Salome continues
to beg for Jochanaan's kiss, Narraboth stabs himself in horror,
and the prophet descends into the cistern, urging her to
seek salvation in the Messiah. The girl collapses in frustration
and longing.
Herod appears, followed by his court. When he
slips in Narraboth's blood, he becomes unnerved and begins
to experience hallucinations, which Herodias scorns. Herod's
thoughts turn to Salome, who spurns his attentions. Renewed
abuse from Jochanaan's subterranean voice harrasses Herodias,
who demands that Herod turn the prophet over to the Jews.
Herod's refusal incurs an argument among several Jews concerning
the nature of God, and a narrative of Christ's miracles by
two Nazarenes.
Herod begs Salome to divert him by dancing
and offers her anything she might wish in return. Salome
makes him swear he will live up to his promise, then dances,
slowly shedding seven veils and finishing her performance
at his feet. Salome demands the head of Jochanaan on a silver
platter, ignoring Herod's desperate alternatives – jewels,
rare birds, a sacred veil. The terrified king finally gives
in. After a tense pause, the arm of the executioner rises
from the cistern, offering the head to Salome. As clouds
obscure the moon, Salome seizes her reward passionately,
addressing Jochanaan as if he lived and triumphantly kissing
his lips. Overcome with revulsion, Herod orders the soldiers
to kill Salome.
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