Question

Watch a scene from Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro (You may find this selection by searching the Internet.). In 200 – 250 words, briefly describe what is happening in the scene and your reaction to it. What action is happening? Is the scene funny? Who are the characters? Is this scene entertaining or interesting?

Answer 1

Scene: A lavishly decorated hall that has two thrones and is prepared for wedding celebrations.

Briefly describe what is happening in the scene and your reaction to it.

The root of Figaro's parentage is revealed in this act. He is the long lost son of Bartolo and Marcellina. They are joined by Susanna and the scene closes with a double wedding - Figaro & Susanna, Bartolo, and Marcellina.

One wedding itself was not anticipated! When it became a double wedding and a scene where Figaro's parents are revealed there's a sense of relief. It would have been bad to see him marry his mother, Marcellina.

What action is happening?

The big action is that the countess plans on catching the count in his infidelity. She plants a note as if from Susanna and plans to meet him in the garden disguised as Susanna.

Is the scene funny?

It is. Even though it might seem funny to us, the note exchange and the clever disguise of Cherubino as a girl et al, the situation is actually important. Three people are trying to make the count see his faults at fidelity.

Who are the characters?

1. The Count - The infidel
2. The Countess - The one planning to meet the Count as Susanna to catch him in the act
3. Figaro - The Servant whose lineage is revealed
4. Susanna - Figaro's bride to be
5. Bartolo - Figaro's birth father
6. Marcellina - Figaro's birth mother
7. Barbarina - Antonio's daughter
8. Cherubino - Barbarina's groom to be
9. Antonio - Barbarina's father

Is this scene entertaining or interesting?

It is both entertaining and interesting. The way the plot unfolds is interesting and the lavish decorations and wedding festivities are entertaining.