Faust

Libretto by Josef Karl Bernard (G,I)

3S,A,4T,2Bar,3B; chorus; ballet
2(II=picc).2.2.2-4.2.3.0-timp-org-strings

Strasbourg and Aachen, Middle Ages

Faust tells Mephistopheles that in the future he wants to do only good deeds and demands to see his faithful lover, Röschen. This does not prevent Mephistopheles from planning their next adventure. Not long afterwards, Faust finds himself in dire straits as he is persecuted by Röschen’s admirer, Franz, along with a group of villagers. Mephisto saves the two of them, but on the condition that Faust gives up his wedding plans. At the same time, Kunigunde is abducted by Gulf, a knight and Hugo, the bridegroom, is on his way to Gulf’s castle. While Röschen and Franz run after Faust and are hindered by Mephistopheles, Hugo sets Kunigunde free, with the help of Faust – who instantly falls in love with the bride. This passion does not fade even when he is an honorary guest at Hugo’s and Kunigunde’s wedding – and is still as strong when, as a consequence of one of Mephistopheles’ tricks, he runs into Röschen. Faust wants to seduce the bride and kills Hugo in a fight. Mephistopheles arranges a meeting between Faust, Röschen (who knows nothing of her rival yet) and Kunigunde (who has not yet been told of her husband’s fate) and everything is revealed …

Dramatic, Poetic, Romantic