Mozart Operas: Swains, Countesses and Magic Flutes

In this seminar, we will delve into the world of opera by listening, viewing, and thinking. The focus will be three operas by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Abduction from the Seraglio, The Marriage of Figaro, and The Magic Flute. We will delight in the whimsy of these compositions and seek to comprehend the depths of the human condition represented by them, both in musical and verbal form. The topics will come out of our discussions on issues pertaining to these works or other operas of your choice. In addition to papers, there will also be independent creative work performed informally as the schedule of the class allows. 3 hrs. sem.