Pietro Metastasio
Pietro Metastasio
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Pietro Antonio Domenico Trapassi, known by his pen name Metastasio, was a celebrated Italian poet of the 18th century.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 3, 1698, in Rome, Italy, Metastasio passed away on April 24, 1782, at the age of 83.
Nationality and Profession(s)
An Italian national by birth, Metastasio was a poet, librettist, and writer. He is renowned for his contributions to opera and musical theater.
Early Life and Background
Metastasio's early life was marked by humble beginnings. His father, Antonio Trapassi, was a shoemaker who encouraged Pietro's love for poetry from an early age. Metastasio began writing poems as a teenager, showcasing remarkable talent and dedication. He attended the University of Rome, where he studied law but eventually turned to a career in literature.
Major Accomplishments
Metastasio's accomplishments are numerous, but some stand out:
Poetic mastery: His works showcase exceptional skill in various poetic forms, including sonnets, odes, and cantatas.
Operatic librettos: Metastasio wrote over 1,000 librettos for operas, collaborating with renowned composers such as Haydn, Gluck, and Mozart. His lyrics captured the essence of opera, making him a beloved figure in the art form.
Innovative style: Metastasio's writing introduced new ideas to the world of opera, including dramatic innovations that pushed the boundaries of storytelling.Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works by Metastasio include:
_Artaserse_ (1730) - a tragic opera that launched his career
_Didone abbandonata_ (1724) - an opera that showcased his mastery of lyrical poetry
Collaborations: His partnership with composers led to numerous iconic operas, solidifying his impact on the art form
Impact and Legacy
Metastasio's legacy extends far beyond his own time. His works have had a lasting influence on:
Opera: Metastasio's librettos continue to inspire new generations of composers and artists.
Literature: His poetry has been studied for centuries, with many considering him one of the greatest poets in Italian literature.
Artistic innovation: Metastasio pushed boundaries in storytelling, paving the way for future artistic innovations.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Metastasio's quotes and writings are often referenced due to his:
Timeless insights: His poetry offers poignant observations on love, loss, and human nature.
* Artistic mastery: Metastasio's work continues to inspire artists across genres, making him a revered figure in the world of opera and literature.
Quotes by Pietro Metastasio
Sharp and fell remorse, the offspring of my sin! Why do you, O God, lacerate my heart so late? Why, O boding cries, that scream so close to me, – why do I listen to you now, and never heard you before?
How full of error is the judgment of mankind! They wonder at results when they are ignorant of the reasons.
Love is a feeling that comes into our hearts of our own choice for neither force nor harshness can limit the heart’s freedom.
If every man’s internal care Were written on his brow, How many would our pity share Who raise our envy now?
![If our inward griefs were seen written on our brow, how many would be pitied who are now envied! [It., Se a ciascun l'interno affanno Si leggesse in fronte scritto, Quanti mai, che invidia fanno, Ci farebbero pieta!].](/_vercel/image?url=https:%2F%2Flakl0ama8n6qbptj.public.blob.vercel-storage.com%2Fquotes%2Fquote-2083181.png&w=1536&q=100)
If our inward griefs were seen written on our brow, how many would be pitied who are now envied! [It., Se a ciascun l'interno affanno Si leggesse in fronte scritto, Quanti mai, che invidia fanno, Ci farebbero pieta!].
Every noble acquisition is attended with its risks; he who fears to encounter the one must not expect to obtain the other.
Love is a feeling that comes into our hearts of our own choice for neither force nor harshness can limit the heart's freedom.
Though the Indian ocean abounds in rich and rare gems, it does not boast a clearer sky nor more unruffled sea. If there be a shore that dreads not the fury of the faithless billows, it is some poor and narrow inlet unknown to the winds.
The aged oak upon the steep stands more firm and secure if assailed by angry winds; for if the winter bares its head, the more strongly it strikes its roots into the ground, acquiring strength as it loses beauty.
If the internal griefs of every man could be read, written on his forehead, how many who now excite envy would appear to be the objects of pity?