Cavalleria rusticana SYNOPSIS

Introduction

Before Turiddu was called to military service, he got engaged to Lola. When he returned home from the army, he was disappointed to find that while he was gone Lola had married the wealthy Alfio. Turiddu tries to forget his sorrows with Santuzza…

Easter morning in a village in Sicily

Turiddu serenades Lola, with whom he has re-established contact.

The village inhabitants are happy because it is Spring. Driven by a feeling of anxiety, Santuzza looks for Turiddu at his mother, Lucia’s, tavern on the village square.

Alfio, who was away on business, returns and sings about his wife’s fidelity. Easter bells summon the villagers to early morning Mass.

Santuzza, feeling that she is wicked due to her relationship with Turiddu, remains outside the church. She suspects that Turiddu is unfaithful and confides her sorrows to his mother. He is taken to task, but he resorts to excuses. However, as Lola passes by, he forgets Santuzza and her accusations, pushes her away and runs after Lola. Santuzza curses him. Deeply wounded and with hurt pride, she reveals to Alfio the adulterous relationship his wife has with Turiddu. In a rage, Alfio swears to seek revenge. Only now does Santuzza realize with despair what a tragic state of affairs she has caused.

Intermezzo sinfonico

When the church service is over, Turiddu invites everyone to join him in a traditional drink. He also offers Alfio a cup. Alfio refuses rudely. Turiddu realizes that Alfio knows about the adultery. They challenge each other to a duel according to Sicilian ritual.

Fear of death rises in Turiddu and he begs his mother for her blessing. He asks her to protect Santuzza. Then he goes to the agreed upon meeting place for the duel.

The cry, »Turiddu has been murdered« ends the tragedy.