Here's a breakdown:
* Opera seria (serious opera) dominated the Italian opera scene from the late 17th century through the mid-18th century.
* Characteristics:
* Formal structure: Divided into three acts, with arias, recitatives, and choruses.
* Emphasis on vocal virtuosity: Singers were expected to demonstrate impressive vocal technique and range.
* Mythological and historical plots: Usually focused on stories of gods, heroes, and historical figures.
* Serious and somber themes: Dealing with love, betrayal, revenge, and destiny.
* Formal and aristocratic: Popular with the wealthy and elite.
Decline of opera seria:
* By the mid-18th century, opera seria began to lose its popularity.
* The audience grew tired of the rigid structure and unrealistic plots.
* New styles, like opera buffa (comic opera), emerged, offering more realistic and relatable stories.
Transition to new styles:
* Opera buffa: Offered humorous plots, relatable characters, and more emphasis on ensemble singing.
* Singspiel: A German form combining spoken dialogue with singing.
* Opera semiseria: A blend of serious and comic elements.
These new styles gradually replaced opera seria, eventually leading to the development of the grand opera of the 19th century, which emphasized spectacle, large-scale productions, and a more dramatic style.