Salome is a tragic opera in one act by the German composer Richard Strauss (see Strauss, Richard). The German poet and translator Hedwig Lachmann wrote the libretto (text) in German. It was a translation of a play in French, Salome, by the Irish-born author Oscar Wilde (see Wilde, Oscar). It was first performed in Dresden, Germany, on Dec. 9, 1905.
Wilde based his play on the story of Salome in the New Testament, but he invented many details that shocked audiences of his time. Strauss reflected this shocking content in his opera. The action takes place in the palace of King Herod, about A.D. 30. In the midst of a banquet, the religious prophet Jochanaan (Saint John the Baptist) is heard proclaiming the coming of the messiah from his prison cell. Herod orders him to be brought forth. Salome, Herod’s stepdaughter, a 15-year-old girl, is attracted to Jochanaan. After Jochanaan rejects her advances, she decides to take revenge. Herod asks her to dance for him and, in return, promises her anything she wishes. Salome performs the famous “Dance of the Seven Veils” and then asks Herod for Jochanaan’s head on a silver dish. Herod, though horrified, keeps his promise and has Jochanaan beheaded. Salome kisses the head of the prophet, an act that audiences of the early 1900’s considered especially objectionable.
Strauss’s music for Salome is often violent and harsh. At other times, it is vigorous and passionate. The orchestral music especially helps create the rich Middle Eastern atmosphere of the opera. The role of Salome is one of the most difficult in the repertoire. The performer must not only sing extremely complicated music, but she must also act and dance well.
