Fierabras D 796

Composed in 1823 but not performed during his lifetime, Franz Schubert’s Fierabras is a “number opera” with spoken dialogue in the manner of opéra comique. It is based on the medieval legends associated with Charlemagne, including that of Eginhard and Emma, and draws on the old French heroic epic (chanson de geste).

Emma, the daughter of Charlemagne secretly loves the knight Eginhard who is not befitting of her rank. The heathen Moorish prince Fierabras who, after being defeated by Charlemagne, falls into French captivity and converts to Christianity, is also in love with Emma. His sister Florinda on the other hand loves the Franconian knight Roland who is being held prisoner by the Moors and whom she helps to escape. After several military conflicts where Charlemagne’s army finally conquers the Moors, the lovers reunite. Only Fierabras who is reprieved, renounces his love and accepts the liaison between Emma and Eginhard.