Synopsis by Karen Mercedes

Jules Massenet: Le Cid

Act I

Scene 1

The first scene is in the house of the Count de Gormas, where several noblemen are discussing the coming honor of knighthood, which the King of Spain is about to confer on the popular young hero Rodrigue, son of Don Digue, a renowned warrior. The King is also to appoint on that day a preceptor for his daughter, and it is the general opinion that Count de Gormas will be the one selected to fill this honorable position. Chimne, the beautiful daughter of Count de Gormas, is deeply in love with Rodrigue, who returns her affection. She confides her love to the Infanta, who in her turn confesses a passion for Rodigue, but realizing her position as heir to the throne of Castile, promises Chimne to conceal her own feelings, and to assist in uniting the lovers.

Scene 2

In the next scene, the knighthood of Rodrigue takes place amid the great rejoicing of the people. After the ceremony, the King appoints Don Digue preceptor for his daughter, much to the chagrin of Count de Gormas, who intentionally picks a quarrel with the aged Don Digue, and easily disarms him. Don Digue, overcome with shame at this disgrace, calls on his son to avenge his honor. Don Rodigue is overwhelmed with grief when he hears that it is Chmine's father that he must meet, but the family name is at stake, and he swears to defend it.

Act II

Scene 1

They meet in a moonlit street near the Count's palace, and the Count is slain by Rodrigue. Chimne, hearing the disturbance, comes forth, and finding her father's dead body, swears to be revenged on his murderer, and goes immediately to the King demanding justice.

Scene 2

The King is about to regretfully comdemn Rodrigue to death, when a messenger arrives with news that a great army of Moors is appraoching, and Rodrigue obtains the grace of a day to lead the attack against the enemy, promising that , if he survives, he will return to give himself up to justice.

Act III

Scene 1

Before leaving he seeks an interview with Chimne, and tells her that he intends to let himself be killed in battle. This so frightens her that she confesses her love, and begs him to protect himself and defeat the enemy, and thus atone for his crime.

Scene 2

Rodrigue goes forth to war with a light heart and vanquishes the Moors, and is hailed by them the "Cid" or conqueror.

Scene 3

Rodrigue prays and a vision of Saint James promises victory over the Moors. Rodrigue appears before his troops and tellss them of his vision. They go off to war singing of their noble leader.

Act IV

On his return he gives himself up to the King according to his promise, who gladly pardons him on hearing that Chimne has confessed her love and renounced her vengeance, and the lovers are happily betrothed amid great rejoicing of the people.

> This Week

> Archive of operas

Jules Massenet
1842 - 1912.