Cadmus et Hermione

Cadmus et Hermione recounts the legendary founding of Thebes through the romantic trials of its hero. Cadmus, sent by his father to find his sister Europa, discovers a dragon guarding a sacred spring and slays the monster, sowing its teeth into the earth. From these teeth spring armed warriors who fight one another until only five survive to aid Cadmus in establishing his kingdom. Amid the tumultuous founding of Thebes, Cadmus encounters the beautiful Hermione, daughter of Mars and Venus, and their love becomes the emotional and dramatic center of the work. The opera weaves together themes of heroic conquest and romantic devotion, as divine intervention and mortal passion shape the destiny of nations. Lully's score combines spectacular dance sequences with lyrical moments that elevate the mythological narrative into a celebration of French baroque splendor and courtly ideals.