Thaïs, a lyric opera by Jules Massenet, premiered in Paris in 1894. The libretto, by Louis Gallet, is based on the novel Thaïs by Anatole France. It is based on the life of St. Thaïs of Egypt, a fourth-century convert to Christianity.
Characters in Thaïs
- Thaïs, a courtesan (Soprano)
- Athanaël, a monk of the Cenobite Order (Baritone)
- Nicias, a nobleman (Tenor)
- Crobyle, a slave (Soprano)
- Myrtale, a slave (Mezzo-soprano)
- Palémon, leader of the Cenobite Order (Bass)
- Albine, an abbess (Mezzo-soprano)
Score of Thaïs
A complete vocal score of Jules Massenet's Thaïs is available for free at the International Music Score Library Project (IMSLP).
Synopsis of Thaïs
The story takes place in Egypt in the fourth century A.D.
Act I
Scene 1 - The Cenobite Dwelling in the Desert
The monks share a meal. Athanaël returns from Alexandria, his birthplace, which is full of sin under the rule of the beautiful courtesan Thaïs. Palémon warns him not to interfere in the outside world, but at night he sees a vision of Thaïs being worshiped as Aphrodite and resolves to convert her to Christianity.
Scene 2 - House of Nicias in Alexandria
Athanaël visits Nicias, an old friend, to find out the whereabouts of Thaïs. Nicias explains that Thaïs is currently his mistress, but will not be for long because of his poor finances. Athanaël announces his intention to convert Thaïs, which amuses Nicias; but the latter invites Athanaël to a banquet. The slaves dress Athanaël in new clothes.
Athanaël tells Thaïs that he intends to convert her, but she dismisses him, saying that he is denying his sexual nature. She attempts to seduce him, but he flees.
Act II
Scene 1 - Thaïs's Chambers
Thaïs examines her beauty in a mirror, wondering what will happen to her as she ages. Athanaël invites her to accept eternal life and God's true love, but she hears Nicias's voice and rejects them both, despairing. Athanaël prays for her.
Orchestral Interlude - "Meditation"
Scene 2 - Outside Thaïs's House
Thaïs exits and tells Athanaël that she will follow him. First he makes her cast off her belongings and burn her house. Nicias enters, wanting to get Thaïs back. The slaves perform a dance. Athanaël and Thaïs exit the house. The crowd threatens to stone Athanaël because of Thaïs's conversion, but Nicias distracts them with money and Thaïs and Athanaël escape the burning house.
Act III
Scene 1 - The Desert Outside Albine's Convent
Thaïs is exhausted and cannot go on. Athanaël first tries to push her on, but then goes for water. Thaïs thanks him for converting her. Athanaël gives Thaïs over to the nuns.
Scene 2 - The Monks' Dwelling
The monks greet Athanaël. He confesses to Palémon that he is haunted by impure thoughts about Thaïs. Seeing a vision of her death, he rushes into a storm to see her again.
Scene 3 - The Convent Garden
Thaïs lies dying. Athanaël confesses his lustful thoughts for her, but she is focused on pure, spiritual love. Angels carry her away, and Athanaël collapses, begging for mercy.
Sources:
- Melitz, Leo, trans. Richard Salinger. The Opera Goers' Complete Guide. New York: Dodd, Mead & Co., 1921.
- Synopsis of Thaïs from the Metropolitan Opera.
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