Vibrato Vixens: Women in Literature and Opera
In this course you will meet the dashing heroines who have inspired famous operas. Readings include Manon Lescaut, The Lady of the Camellias, The Turn of the Screw, The Bride of Lammermoor, Sister Carrie, Jane Eyre, Marnie, and The Handmaid's Tale. This is primarily a class on literature appreciation, though musical selections based on our readings will be played and discussed. Students will have the option of reading entire novels or meaningful excerpts provided by the instructor. You will learn how to analyze complicated texts, understand how a literary work can be translated into a libretto, and gain new insight into traditional feminine stereotypes, such as the spinster governess, the madwoman, and the prostitute with a heart of gold.
You'll Walk Away with
- A familiarity with classic novels and the operas they inspired
- The ability to analyze complex texts
- An understanding of how a literary work gets translated into a libretto
Ideal for
- Literature and music enthusiasts
- All members of the community—working, retired, and in-between
1 section
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Fall 2025
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Section
001 -
Semester
Fall 2025 -
Date
Oct 6 - Nov 24 -
Day
Monday -
Time
2:00PM-3:40PM -
Sessions
8 -
Faculty
TBA -
Location
Instructor Led
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