Opera | Radamisto

Radamisto by G.F. Handel (concert version)

Setting & Premise

King Farasmane of Thrace has two children: his son Radamisto, who is married to Zenobia, and his daughter Polissena, married to Tiridate, King of Armenia. While Radamisto is away on campaign, Tiridate captures Farasmane and becomes dangerously obsessed with Zenobia. Beside him stands his ally Tigrane, uneasy and uncertain about his master’s ruthless intentions.

Act I

Polissena, feeling increasingly isolated, is approached by Tigrane, who warns that Tiridate plans to kill her brother Radamisto and seize Zenobia. He offers her protection, and his love, if she abandons her unfaithful husband. Polissena rejects the offer. Meanwhile, Tiridate arranges for Farasmane to be brought before the besieged city and demands that Radamisto surrender both his kingdom and his wife. When Farasmane and Zenobia publicly plead for resistance, both refuse to capitulate. With the Thracian army defeated, Tigrane bargains for Farasmane’s life, but only if he can deliver Radamisto and Zenobia into Tiridate’s hands. Polissena, torn by loyalty, pleads for her brother’s rescue, and a conflicted Tigrane agrees.

Act II

Radamisto and Zenobia escape to the mountains, but Zenobia, fearing capture, begs Radamisto to kill her rather than let her fall into Tiridate’s clutches. Unable to do it, he only wounds her lightly; she vows vengeance before leaping into a river. Presuming her dead, Radamisto despairs. Meanwhile Tigrane, now acting on Polissena’s behalf — offers Radamisto a daring plan: he could enter Tiridate’s court disguised as a servant, unseen by his enemies. At the same time, Zenobia has been rescued and placed in Tiridate’s custody. Believing Radamisto is dead, Tiridate summons what he thinks is the grieving servant, unaware that it’s actually Radamisto in disguise. This deception triggers a tense reunion with Zenobia, though under terrible risk.

Act III & Resolution

Tiridate attempts to claim Zenobia and consolidate his power, but an assault on moral decency leads to a final revolt. In the end: Farasmane is restored to his throne, Radamisto and Zenobia are reunited, and Tiridate, shamed and confronted by betrayal and rebellion, repents. Polissena, demonstrating courage and mercy, becomes a symbol of moral conscience and reconciliation. Rather than vengeance, Radamisto urges clemency, and the families find redemption and unity.