OperaPremiered 1831Libretto by Felice Romani
Synopsis
Amina, a young somnambulist village girl, is betrothed to Elvino, a wealthy farmer. On the eve of their wedding, a mysterious count arrives in the village, and his flirtation with Amina awakens the jealousy of Elvino and the suspicions of the community. When Amina is discovered sleepwalking through the village in her nightgown, appearing to enter the count's chamber, scandal erupts. Elvino breaks their engagement, convinced of her infidelity. Amina's reputation lies in ruins as the villagers turn against her. In a dramatic final act, Amina sleepwalks once more, this time across a precarious bridge, and Elvino witnesses her somnambulistic state, finally understanding her innocence. Moved by her vulnerability and the revelation of her unconscious wanderings, Elvino forgives her, and their love is restored as Amina awakens to find herself reunited with her beloved.