Il ritorno d'Ulisse in patria facts for kids

Il ritorno d'Ulisse in patria (which means Ulysses' Return to the Fatherland in English) is an opera. An opera is like a play where the story is told mostly through singing, with music played by an orchestra. This opera was first performed in Venice, Italy, around 1639 or 1640.

The music for this opera was written by a famous composer named Claudio Monteverdi. The story, or the "words" (which are called the libretto in opera), were written in Italian by Giacomo Badoaro.

The opera tells a story from ancient Greek myths. It's about the hero Odysseus (who is also known as Ulysses) and his long journey home after the Trojan War. He faces many challenges to get back to his kingdom, Ithaca, and his loyal wife, Penelope.

The Story of Ulysses' Return

The opera's story is based on a very old Greek epic poem called the Odyssey, written by Homer. It focuses on the last part of Ulysses' journey.

Ulysses' Long Journey Home

Ulysses has been away from home for 20 years. He fought in the Trojan War for ten years, and then spent another ten years trying to get back to Ithaca. During his journey, he faced many dangers and adventures.

Trouble in Ithaca

While Ulysses was gone, many men believed he was dead. These men, called "suitors," moved into his palace. They wanted to marry his wife, Penelope, and take over his kingdom. Penelope, however, remained loyal to Ulysses and tried to put off marrying any of them.

The Hero's Return

When Ulysses finally arrives back in Ithaca, he is disguised as a beggar. This helps him see who is still loyal to him and who has betrayed him. With the help of his son, Telemachus, and a few loyal servants, Ulysses plans to get rid of the unwanted suitors.

The Contest

Penelope sets up a contest for the suitors. She says she will marry the man who can string Ulysses' old bow and shoot an arrow through twelve axe heads. None of the suitors can do it. Then, the disguised Ulysses asks for a turn. He easily strings the bow and shoots the arrow, proving who he really is.

Reclaiming His Kingdom

After proving his identity, Ulysses fights and defeats the suitors. He brings peace back to his kingdom and is finally reunited with his beloved wife, Penelope. The opera celebrates loyalty, courage, and the joy of coming home.

Images for kids

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  The composer Claudio Monteverdi around 1640.

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  An 18th-century book of Homer's Odyssey, the ancient story that inspired the opera.

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  This picture shows how a dramatic scene from the story, where a ship turns to stone, might have been shown on stage in the opera.

See also

In Spanish: El regreso de Ulises a la patria para niños