Reception of Antiquity in18th century Opera : A Study of Divine Elements in the Story of Alcestis

Abstract: The story of Alcestis is an interesting case of divine agency pervading the narrative and the characters in the play. It intimately concerns the mortal players, who, though largely powerless in the struggle, are central to the story. The play in the ancient times brought with it the associations and expectations of the society and it was written to interact with its audience. This remains true despite the temporal, cultural and religious boundaries that divide ancient Greece from 18th century Europe. Despite offering its own take on the drama, involving small but significant changes to the narrative, the operatic rendition, Alceste of both 1767 and 1778 show cases the resourceful and accurate interpretation of the different aspects surrounding Apollo, such as oracles, prophecy and indeed, his troubled history. The authors of 18th century Alceste pursued the wider world of classical myths to creatively, and independently from the play, enrich the altered narrative with immersive qualities.