Fausto

Synopsis : 

Acte one: Temptation

The old doctor Fausto, tormented by dissatisfaction with his life, wishes to put an end to his misfortunes. As he raises a poisoned cup to his lips, a chorus singing sacred music seems to address him and prompts him to abandon his intention. Margarita asks him to heal Catarina, who is in danger of dying. Fausto falls in love with the young girl and, in order to regain his youthful charms, calls on the Devil to come to his aid. Mefistofele agrees to help him on condition that Fausto gives him his soul in return. The scene changes, revealing the lair of a witch whom the demon introduces to his protégé. Thanks to an evil potion, the old doctor is granted his wish.

Acte two: Happiness

Margarita spins at her wheel while singing with her companions. Fausto arrives, followed by Mefistofele, and declares his love for her. To ensure she will yield completely, Mefistofele asks Catarina for permission to introduce Margarita to the dashing doctor officially. Following a stroll in the garden by all four protagonists, the two women are finally conquered, one of them falling irrevocably in love with the rejuvenated Fausto, the other infatuated with the fawning demon.

Acte three: Crime

Overcome with remorse, Margarita goes to church to pray, but is mocked by ill-intentioned neighbours who condemn her affair. Valentino, her brother, returns from the army. Mefistofele tells him that Catarina is dead and that his sister has entered into a shameful union with Fausto. No sooner has Valentino entered Margarita’s house than the infernal counsellor invites the doctor to sing a romance under his mistress’s window. The soldier runs out of the house in a rage; Mefistofele deceives Fausto, telling him Valentino is a rival suitor. Fausto seizes a sword and attacks the young man; the demon deflects Valentino’s sword and he falls mortally wounded. Before breathing his last, he names his sister, and Fausto realises the full horror of his crime.

Acte four: Punishment 

Fausto has returned to his laboratory. Mefistofele informs him of the danger that threatens Margarita: the young girl, having lost her wits, went down to the river to drown herself and her child. The people saved her at the last moment, but the baby did not survive. Accused of infanticide, Margarita is dying in prison. Fausto curses the fatal aid he received from the demon, and, after some hesitation, decides to tear up the abominable pact they have signed. But, just then, the town crier proclaims that Margarita has been sentenced to death. She must be freed, and Mefistofele is the only one capable of snatching her from the hands of the executioner. They rush to the prison. Half-crazed, and soon close to death, Margarita refuses the doctor’s proposal to help her escape. Fausto is condemned to the torments of Hell, while a chorus of angels announces that Margarita has been granted divine pardon.