Textual composition and the 'Macbeth', 'Othello', and 'Falstaff' of Shakespeare and Verdi

The dissertation examines adaptations of Shakespearean plays in the operatic libretti of Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901), who dominated Italian opera in the second half of the nineteenth century. Although Verdi relied on the assistance of librettists with all his operas, he maintained scrupulous control over the textual details. The primary focus is on the triangle formed by Shakespeare, Verdi, and the librettist with considered attention to the ways in which a dramatic crux, or challenge, will both differ from and be cognate with an operatic crux. The monograph explores original Shakespearean sources, literary and musicological criticism, and the impact of historical circumstances on the genesis of Verdi's Shakespearean libretti. A brief biographical account of the composer is followed by a synopsis of the development of opera and an overview of the role of the librettist. It then addresses the distinguishing features of Shakespeare's writing that need to be considered when assessing adaptations of his plays into libretti.;The second, third, and fourth parts of the study focus respectively on the three operas: Macbeth (1847) written with librettist Francesco Piave, Otello (1887), and Falstaff (1893), the latter two written with Arrigo Boito. Additional research includes new evidence regarding Verdi's unfinished Re Lear. The three complete operas are examined in close textual comparison with their original sources. Particular attention is given to the translations used in the libretti; textual and plot conformity; replication of rhyme and meter; diction and syntax; character portrayal and replication; and distinctions between dramatic and operatic settings. The study also compares different editions of the plays upon which the operas were based, as well as various editions of correspondence. The conclusion assesses Verdi's contribution to Shakespearean adaptation and the subsequent implications for the task of the librettist in creating a quality text that enhances, rather than detracts from, the composer's effort.