A 12th-century opera, Ordo Virtutum was originally written in plainchant. This edition features the complete score transcribed in modern notation with bilingual text (Latin and English), as well as a facsimile of the original work. The translation by Dr. Zoltan Paulinyi preserves the musical and prosodic correspondence of the words. This edition also includes stage directions and presents a well-organized vocal register chart for musical production.
The Order of Virtues remains one of the most captivating philosophical themes of the last millennium. Saint Hildegard posed the question in an artistically elegant form in this sublime opera, inspiring hundreds of intellectuals, including Saint Thomas Aquinas himself, to seek more complete answers.
ARGUMENT.
On a battlefield, patriarchs and prophets admire the personified virtues. The Virtues wish to protect three incarnated souls: the Happy, the Unhappy and the Penitent ones.
Out of 23 characters and members of the choirs, 18 virtues appear successively. Following the cavalry’s customs, the virtues seek to coat the souls with appropriate armour and encourage them to honour their garments fighting against the devil.
Each virtue aims to consolidate a leading position in the order of virtues to strengthen the souls at the battlefield, which symbolizes the life.
The Penitent Soul converts with the help of the Virtues and struggles against the ancient serpent.
The Unhappy Soul, who desisted from the fight, reveals the great God’s miracle when aided after calling for help. The virtues come together to arrest the devil, and to show souls the right path for God. The opera ends by glorifying the magnificent divine wisdom and requesting for God's blessings.
About the translator. Dr Zoltan Paulinyi teaches online and in Brasília Asa Norte. http://aulas.Paulinyi.com (+55.61).986.534.811
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