Maria di Rohan

The story of Maria Di Rohan is both simple (the classic love triangle) and complicated. Chalais loves Maria, who has been forced to secretly marry Chevreuse. Chevreuse is in deep trouble, because he has killed a nephew of the powerful Cardinal Richelieu. The opera is divided into three parts: Unfortunate Consequences of Duels; Not Love But Gratitude; Senseless Revenge. The royal palace Maria seeks Chalais’ help in obtaining a pardon for Chevreuse. Chalais succeeds in this, but still does not know that Maria and Chevreuse are married. Gondi appears on the scene and insults Maria. Chalais challenges Gondi to a duel, and a grateful Chevreuse offers to be Chalais's second. Richelieu is suddenly ousted from the court, and Chalais is offered his post. Richelieu's demise means that Chevreuse can now disclose his marriage without fear. Chalais despairs, as the others congratulate him on his good fortune. In Chalais's mansion Chalais writes a love letter to Maria and encloses her portrait. The letter and portrait are locked in his desk, to be given to Maria should he perish. He's suddenly visited by Maria who tells him that Richelieu has regained power. She tells Chalais to flee or Richelieu, who sees him as an enemy, will have him executed. Chevreuse is heard approaching and Maria hides in an adjoining chamber. Chevreuse tells Chalais that they must leave for the duel with Gondi. Chevreuse leaves. Chalais says he will follow, but first stays to profess his love for Maria. She also ad…

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