Description
Book SynopsisThe story of Manon Lescaut has become part of the European imagination: she is the fun-loving woman who is irresistible to men. Of Massenet's many operas, she inspired the most popular one, and this libretto shows his minute attention to detail in bringing the character and the period to life. This guide opens with a general survey of Massenet's career by the musicologist Gérard Condé, and includes two essays about this particular opera. Professor Hugh Macdonald explores the interplay of speech and song in Manon and Massenet's genius for comedy. Professor Vivienne Mylne traces the sources and context of Prévost's novel.Contents: Massenet, Gerard Conde; A Musical Synopsis, Hugh Macdonald; Prevost and Manon Lescaut', Vivienne Mylne; Manon: Libretto by Henri Meilhac and Philippe Gille; Manon: English version by Edmund Tracey
Trade ReviewBrilliantly produced and superb value.' * Sunday Times *
All these will provide the new opera-goer with food for thought.' * Daily Telegraph *
Wholehearted recommendation of this valuable new series.' * TLS *
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Massenet by Gerard Conde A Musical Synopsis by Hugh Macdonald Prevost and 'Manon Lescaut' by Vivienne Mylne Thematic Guide 'Manon' Opera-Comique in Five Acts and Six Scenes by Henri Meilhac and Philippe Gille English version by Edmund Tracey Act One Act Two Act Three Act Four Act Five Discography by Martin Hoyle Bibliography Contributors
