“Don Pasquale” by Gaetano Donizetti is a comic opera in three acts. Set in 19th-century Rome, the plot revolves around the characters’ complicated relationships.
Rich old bachelor Don Pasquale decides to marry a young woman to secure his inheritance and get an heir. He turns to his nephew Ernesto, who has fallen in love with the poor widow Norina, and demands that he marry a wealthy woman or renounce his inheritance.
Ernesto refuses to give up his beloved Norina and Don Pasquale is outraged by this decision. In desperation, Don Pasquale asks his friend Doctor Malatesta for help. Malatesta proposes a plan to bring Don Pasquale to his senses and bring Ernesto and Norina together.
Malatesta arranges a staging in which Norina poses as a shy and innocent woman and agrees to marry Don Pasquale. Once the marriage has taken place, Norina turns into a domineering and wasteful wife who makes Don Pasquale’s life a living hell.
Don Pasquale finally realizes that he has fallen into a trap and that he has married the wrong woman. He gives in and accepts the relationship between Ernesto and Norina. In the end everything is dissolved and Ernesto and Norina are allowed to marry.
“Don Pasquale” is a funny and entertaining opera that humorously portrays the deceptions and intrigues of the characters. Donizetti’s music accompanies the action with lively melodies and humorous ensemble scenes. The opera is known for its comedic elements and musical brilliance.