preludial

Updated: May 19, 2025

After a good deal of preludial matter the plot centres in the rivalry of Chénier the poet and Gérard, a revolutionary leader, for the hand of Madeleine. Gérard condemns Chénier to death, but is melted by Madeleine's pleading, and rescinds the order for his execution. The pardon, however, comes too late, and Madeleine and Chénier ascend the scaffold together, in an ecstasy of lyrical rapture.

R. A. (Richard Alexander) Streatfeild - The Opera : A Sketch of the Development of Opera. With full Descriptions of all Works in the Modern Repertory.