La Boheme - English National Opera Guide 14 (includes libretto)

English National Opera Guides are ideal companions to the opera, providing stimulating introductory articles together with the complete text of each opera in English and the original

Puccini's La Bohème is one of the most beloved and enduring operas of all time

In this guide, William Ashbrook evaluates the opera's initial reception, the reasons for its wide appeal and Verdi's influence on the composition

Nicholas John discusses the tortuous evolution of the libretto over the course of three and a half years and gives a synopsis, outlining the main themes of La Bohème

Edward Greenfield presents an essay on the musical structure and consistency of the opera, whose "very accessibility tends to obscure the musical genius behind the score"

Finally, Joanna Richardson surveys the Parisian bohemians portrayed by Henry Murger, whose book formed the dramatic basis for Puccini's work

This edition has over twenty photographs, a detailed thematic analysis and the original libretto with a facing literal translation

The guide is essential reading for anyone interested in the background to this opera, its themes and composition.

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