Some Forerunners of Italian Opera

"Some Forerunners of Italian Opera" by W. J. Henderson is a journey back to the foundations of Italian opera, exploring the cultural and artistic landscape that paved the way for its arrival. It highlights key artistic influences and historical events that shaped the genre, offering a history of the drama in Italy, starting with religious ceremonies in the church and evolving into elaborate performances combining sacred and worldly traditions. Henderson tracks how these performances shifted from religious themes to everyday stories, creating a breeding ground for innovation that led to landmark works like "Orfeo" and secured the environment for the development of Italian opera.