OPERA-GUIDE_ Don Giovanni e.pdf

OPERA-GUIDE: Don Giovanni

http://www.opera-guide.ch/opera.php?uilang=de&id=251#libretto[18.08.2014 16:34:22]

DON GIOVANNI

Don Giovanni or The Rake Punished

Cast: DON GIOVANNI (baritone) IL COMMENDATORE (bass) DONNA ANNA (soprano) DON OTTAVIO (tenor) DONNA ELVIRA (sopran) LEPORELLO (bass) ZERLINA (soprano) MASETTO (bass)

CHORUS peasants, servants

ACT ONE

Overture

SCENE I A garden, night. Leporello, in a cloak, discovered watching before the house of Donna Anna; then Donna Anna and Don Giovanni; afterwards the Commandant

Nr. 1 - Introduction

LEPORELLO Rest I've none by night or day, Scanty fare and doubtful pay, Ev'ry whim I must fulfil; Take my place whoever will! I myself will go acourting, I the gentleman will play, But with him no more I'll stay, No, no, but with him no more I'll stay Gaily he within is sporting, I must keep off all intrusion, For his lordship needs seclusion. Hark, I think, I hear him coming, I'll keep safe out of his way. Hides himself

DONNA ANNA holding Don Giovanni firmly by the arm I will know unless thou slay me, Vile intruder who thou art.

DON GIOVANNI Trying to conceal his features Stay me not, fair maid I pray thee, I this instant must depart.

LEPORELLO ('Tis my master! these eyes betray me, Or to fly he has at heart)

DONNA ANNA Help, oh heav'n! will none befriend me?

DON GIOVANNI May the furies all attend thee!

DONNA ANNA Help assistance!

DON GIOVANNI Hush, or tremble! Silence, speak not 'bove thy breath! Thou shalt rue thy mad resistance!

DONNA ANNA

Oper Komponist Synopsis Libretto Noten Highlights

D E I

http://www.opera-guide.ch/#opera

http://www.opera-guide.ch/#composer

http://www.opera-guide.ch/#synopsis

http://www.opera-guide.ch/#parts

http://www.opera-guide.ch/#highlights



Heaven come to my assistance, I'll pursue thee unto death.

Seeing the Commandant approach, she runs into the house

LEPORELLO ('Tis my master makes resistance, I will list to what he saith)

COMMANDANT Miscreant, unhand her, Draw, and defend thee!

DON GIOVANNI Fly, or I warn thee, To death I'll send thee.

COMMANDANT Caitiff, and coward, Thus wouldst thou fly?

LEPORELLO How can I safely from hither fly?

DON GIOVANNI Beware my anger, fly! Die he must!

They fight. The Commandant falls mortally wounded.

COMMANDANT Help, assistance, all is ended! Oh, to die alone unfriended, Vile assassin, thou'st undone me, Heav'n protect and guard my child!

He dies

DON GIOVANNI Rash old man, I have undone thee! In the pangs of death thou'rt lying! Mine's the deed, there's no denying. Why to fight was I beguil'd?

LEPORELLO Thou wilt rue this woeful error, Deed of darkness, deed of terror. Why to stay was I beguil'd. He will rue this woeful error.

DON GIOVANNI Leporello, where are you?

LEPORELLO I'm here, to my misfortune, and you, Sir?

DON GIOVANNI I'm here.

LEPORELLO Who's dead, th'old man, or you Sir?

DON GIOVANNI O, most stupid of questions, he surely.

LEPORELLO Well done, the intention was pretty, Seduce the daughter, and then dispatch the father!

DON GIOVANNI He insisted on fighting.

LEPORELLO And Donn'Anna, did she insist too?



DON GIOVANNI Silence. I'll not be vex'd, away now, Unless you too on something insist.

LEPORELLO Pray, excuse me, from comments I desist.

Exeunt.

Don Octavio, Donna Anna and servants with torches

DONNA ANNA Ah! My father's in danger, Let us haste to his aid!

DON OCTAVIO I will defend him with this sword, With my lifeblood! But where is the assassin?

DONNA ANNA 'Twas here I left him. seeing the corpse What is this I behold? Can I believe my senses, Ah, me unhappy! My father, oh, my father, look upon me!

DON OCTAVIO Oh, terror!

DONNA ANNA Ah, by th'assassin art thou undone! Thou art wounded, blood is flowing, this pallor! Silent and pale, thou heedest not my crying! I cannot hear him breathe! Cold as marble! Oh, my father, best of fathers, Oh, help me, I die.

DON OCTAVIO Assist me, friends, oh, leave us not, Give me aid - bring some water, Oh, bring it quickly, Donn'Anna! Dearest, oh, hear me! Her grief extreme hath cruelly overwhelm'd her.

DONNA ANNA Ah!

DON OCTAVIO She awakens. Newly revives her sorrow.

DONNA ANNA Oh, my father!

DON OCTAVIO Oh, hasten, and bear away ere she perceive it This memorial of terror, look up, my dearest, Oh, turn to me! I'm near thee!

Nr. 2 - Duetto

DONNA ANNA despairingly Cruel, why art thou near me? Leave me alone to perish! Since he I most did cherish Is lost for evermore!

DON OCTAVIO Listen to me, oh, listen, Turn but thy eyes upon me, I know thou'll not disown me, Who love thee evermore.

DONNA ANNA



'Tis thou forgive, oh dearest, Of all now left me the nearest, My father I would see!

DON OCTAVIO Your father, … Hush, oh, dearest, Breathe not the word thou fearest, Thou'st husband and father in me.

DONNA ANNA Ah, my father, my father I would see!

DON OCTAVIO Hush, oh dearest, Breathe not the word thou fearest, Thou'st husband and father in me.

DONNA ANNA Ah, if thou canst, avenge him, Swear it by heav'n above.

DON OCTAVIO I swear it, By heav'n I will avenge him, I swear it by our love!

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO Oh, vow of wratch and terror! Oh, night of dread lamenting! Oh, when will heav'n relenting, Grant us for hope a ray.

Exeunt

SCENE II A street; early morning. Don Giovanni and Leporello

DON GIOVANNI Well, speak what would you tell me? Say it quickly.

LEPORELLO Sir, what I'd say's A very serious matter.

DON GIOVANNI It seems so.

LEPORELLO Of serious consequence.

DON GIOVANNI All the better, come, out with it.

LEPORELLO First promise that this time you'll not punish me.

DON GIOVANNI I promise on my honour, That is, provided the Commandant's not mentioned.

LEPORELLO No one listens?

DON GIOVANNI Of course not.

LEPORELLO No one's approaching?

DON GIOVANNI Stuff!

LEPORELLO Then I can speak out freely,



Safe from your anger?

DON GIOVANNI Yes.

LEPORELLO Then at once I'll begin: Well, my much valued master, The life that you are leading, is that of a rascal.

DON GIOVANNI Fool, how dare you? This shall teach you.

LEPORELLO Think what you promis'd!

DON GIOVANNI Such promisses I keep not, Silence, or I'll...

LEPORELLO Say no more, I will not breathe a whisper.

DON GIOVANNI Then I restore my favour, something I'll tell you: Why think you I am here?

LEPORELLO I think of nothing. But, as it's just now daylight, What so likely as some new love-adventure? You must name her, and I'll record her duly.

DON GIOVANNI The great recorder, see! Now let me tell you: I am in love with the most charming creature, She returns my devotion, I saw her, I address'd her, She is to meet me in the arbour to-night; Hush! There's odour, th'aroma sweet of woman-kind...

LEPORELLO (I call that a refin'd sense of smelling!)

DON GIOVANNI She's handsome at this distance.

LEPORELLO (What an eyesight, gracious!)

DON GIOVANNI Let us watch this fair lady, Step aside here with me.

LEPORELLO (On fire already!)

Donna Elvira (in a travelling dress), Don Giovanni, and Leporello

Nr. 3 - Aria

DONNA ELVIRA Where shall I find a token, To guide my steps to thee? My heart is nearly broken, The world is dark to me, Ah! If he stood before me. Fiercely his vows I'd spurn, The love that once he bore me, Can never more return!

DON GIOVANNI Look yonder, 'tis a damsel Who's by her swain forsaken!

DONNA ELVIRA



The love that once he bore me, Can nevermore return!

DON GIOVANNI Ah, poor girl, her grief becomes her!

DONNA ELVIRA Can nevermore return, No, can nevermore return!

DON GIOVANNI I think I'll go and try just to console her.

LEPORELLO No doubt, like many others, you'll cajole her.

DON GIOVANNI Fair Senora!

DONNA ELVIRA That voice!

DON GIOVANNI She? Oh, confusion!

LEPORELLO How charming! Donna Elvira.

DONNA ELVIRA Don Giovanni! You here? Falsest of men! Monster of baseness!

LEPORELLO (Now compliments are passing! Waste of words, she by this time ought to know him)

DON GIOVANNI Elvira dear, I pray you, Restrain that voice impetuous! Now listen, and I will tell you all.

DONNA ELVIRA What can you say that will excuse your falsehood? First you besought me secretly to receive you, With vows of fondness, oaths of devotion, Love eternal profession. I believed that you loved me, In your honour confiding When your wife you declared me; Then on a sudden, Casting off ev'ry tie of earth and heaven That our hearts had united, After three days from Burgos you departed; I forsaken, distracted, Was left a prey to remorse and bitter weeping, For I, alas, had learnt to love you dearly.

LEPORELLO (She says it off like a lesson)

DON GIOVANNI For my departure I had important reasons. to Leporello You know them?

LEPORELLO I know them. Oh, such important reasons!

DONNA ELVIRA What other reasons Than your constant heart, That will follow ev'ry fancy, But heav'n has led me hither That I might warn you to stay your wild carreer of folly.

DON GIOVANNI Come, come, you'll not let me exculpate myself.



(This woman will soon drive me mad). Since you, alas, will not believe me, Then let this honest fellow tell you.

LEPORELLO (Honest, truly)

DON GIOVANNI Go, tell her plainly.

LEPORELLO aside to Don Giovanni Whatever shall I tell her?

DON GIOVANNI Yes, yes, keep nothing from her.

Don Giovanni escapes

DONNA ELVIRA Proceed, what is it?

LEPORELLO Well, Madam, it is certain ... This world we live in... I mean to say, perhaps, that is, I mean, You cannot square a circle...

DONNA ELVIRA Heartless villain! Dare you thus to insult my just resentment? Turning as if to Don Giovanni And you, oh, heav'n! He basely has fled! Oh, wretched me! Whither? Was it that way?

LEPORELLO Come, be thankful he's left you; Waste not your anger, he's not worth a regret.

DONNA ELVIRA But by his falsehood I'm deceived, I'm betray'd.

LEPORELLO Pray, Madam, be comforted, For you are not, nor have been, and neither will be, Or the first, or the last of them. Look here now, see this not too small volume, 'Tis almost full of the names, of his fair ones; Town and village, distant countries, yes, foreign nations, Can witness bear to his infatuations.

Nr. 4 - Aria

LEPORELLO Pretty lady, here's a list I would show you, Of the fair ones my master has courted, Here you'll find them all duly assorted, In my writing, will't please you to look, Here is Italy, six hundred and forty, France is down for five hundred and twenty, Only two hundred the Rhineland supplied him, But mark the climax, Spain has already one thousand and three, Here are Countesses in plenty. Waitingmaids, nineteen or twenty. Rustic beauties, Marchionesses, Ev'ry grade his pow'r confesses. Here are courtly dames and maidens, Young and handsome, old and plain. Is a maiden fair and slender, He will praise her for modest sweetness, Then the dark ones are so tender! Lintwhite tresses shew discreetness; When 'tis cold he likes her portly, In the summer, slim and courtly, Tall and haughty, ne'er she alarms him, If she's tiny, no less she charms him. Ripe duennas he engages,



That their names may grace these pages, But what most he's bent on winning, Is of youth the sweet beginning, Poor or wealthy, wan or healthy, Stately dame or modest beauty, He to win them makes his duty, And you know it, not in vain.

Exit

SCENE III

Nr. 5 - Chorus

Zerlina, Masetto, and chorus of villagers, dancing and singing

ZERLINA Let's enjoy, while the season invites us, 'Tis not long that its pleasure will stay, While the fair dream of youth yet delights us, While youth yet delights us, To her swain let no maiden say nay. To her swain let no maiden say nay!

CHORUS Ah! To her swain let no maiden say nay, La, la, re, la, la, la, la, re, la.

MASETTO Oh, yes swains and young lasses take warning, Ye lasses take warning, Lest your true love ye trifle away, away in play, And the season of joy turn to mourning, And joy turn to mourning, When your youth's giddy visions decay.

CHORUS Ah! Let us carol and dance and be gay, La, la, re, la, la, la, la, re, la.

ZERLINA AND MASETTO Ever happy with thee, oh, my treasure, All our days are contentment and pleasure, Let us carol and dance and be gay.

Don Giovanni, Leporello and the others

DON GIOVANNI But softly, see there, in holiday attire, What pretty faces!

LEPORELLO (Amongst so many, I, 'pon my faith, May find something for myself).

DON GIOVANNI Friends, I bid you good morning, I am glad to see you so lighthearted, Pray, continue your singing and your dancing. This surely is a wedding

ZERLINA 'Tis indeed, Sir, and 'tis I am the bride.

DON GIOVANNI Much joy I wish you. The bridegroom?

MASETTO I, at your service

DON GIOVANNI Oh, charming, at my service; 'Pon my life, that's the word of a true gallant.

LEPORELLO



(Quite like a model husband).

ZERLINA Yes, my Masetto is always so good natured.

DON GIOVANNI Just like myself, then; we are good friends already. How shall I call you?

ZERLINA Zerlina.

DON GIOVANNI And you are...

MASETTO Masetto.

DON GIOVANNI My very dear Masetto, My sweetest of Zerlinas! From this hour you are under my protection. to Leporello, who is amongst the peasant girls Leporello! Rascal, what are you doing?

LEPORELLO I too, my worthy master, To these charmers am off 'ring my protection.

DON GIOVANNI These friends of mine you'll conduct straight to my palace, There with refreshments you will provide them, With wine, ices, and sweet meats; Let them all take their pleasure, Let them roam in the garden, Shew them the pictures, the furniture, And above all, let your care be to please my friend Masetto, You perceive me?

LEPORELLO I perceive you. Now come.

MASETTO Your lordship!

DON GIOVANNI Well, what now?

MASETTO My Zerlina cannot stay without me.

LEPORELLO What, not if here instead of you stays his lordship? You may be sure that he will escort her bravely.

DON GIOVANNI Oh yes, Zerlina shall be my special care, Now go, she is in a gentleman's hands.

ZERLINA Go, and fear nothing, In a gentleman's hands you can leave me.

MASETTO And why must I?

ZERLINA Yes, you must do whatever you are bid.

MASETTO Not I, confound it!

DON GIOVANNI Come, come, no more disputing; At once you go, for if you breathe a word I shall resent it. touching his sword Masetto mine, beware, or you'll repent it!



Nr. 6 - Aria

MASETTO Oh of course, Sir, I perceive, I perceive, At your wish I'm deaf and dumb, I will humbly take my leave, Ne'er to common sense succumb. No, no, no, nevermore. You're a gentleman, I know, That to doubt were wrong indeed, Vulgar loves you can't allow, gentle wishes to impede. aside to Zerlina By the Powers, I will shun thee, Oh, thou flirt, thou hast undone me, to Leporello, who wants to lead him off Yes, directly. to Zerlina Stay behind here! 'Tis not what I thought to find here! Always trust a noble's honour, This should be the vassal's creed.

Exit with Leporello.

Zerlina and Don Giovanni.

DON GIOVANNI At last we have dispatch'd him, Zerlinetta to leave the booby liked not; Did I manage it well, my pretty daisy?

ZERLINA My lord, he's my affianc'd.

DON GIOVANNI Who? that clown? Think you a man of feeling, A well-born Cavalier, such ev'n as I am, Tamely can see such sweet and dainty freshness, Such delicate perfections, All thrown away upon a senseless rustic?

ZERLINA But, my Lord, I have promis'd to marry him to-morrow.

DON GIOVANNI Who could help breaking such a promise? You were not intended by nature for a peasant; A brighter fortune is in store For those balmy cheeks of roses, Where sly Cupid reposes, That snowy brow where not a shadow lowers That pretty mouth of coral, that breathes o flowers.

ZERLINA Ah, but I would not...

DON GIOVANNI What is't you would not?

ZERLINA I would not in my love be deceiv'd. I know how seldom you great lords With us simple country maidens court with loyal intention.

DON GIOVANNI That's a vile slander, a malicious invention; With noble birth, noble manners Go always hand in hand; I'll shew you an example; This very instant I will make you my wife.

ZERLINA You?



DON GIOVANNI I, for certain: Come to my quiet dwelling, Oh, come, my fairest angel, There I will wed thee.

Nr. 7 - Duettino

DON GIOVANNI Give me thy hand, oh fairest, Whisper a gentle 'Yes', Come, if for me thou carest, With joy my life to bless.

ZERLINA I would, and yet I would not, I dare not give assent, Alas! I know I should not... Too late, I may repent.

DON GIOVANNI Come, dearest, let me guide thee.

ZERLINA Masetto sure will chide me!

DON GIOVANNI Danger shall ne'er come nigh thee!

ZERLINA Ah … that I could deny thee!

ZERLINA and DON GIOVANNI With thee, with thee, my treasure, This life is nought but pleasure, My heart is fondly thine.

Exeunt, arm in arm.

Donna Elvira and the formers.

DONNA ELVIRA Leave her, thou vile seducer! By heav'n I'm sent, thy perfidy to witness; And to prevent thee From deluding this poor girl's inexperience With thy treacherous language.

ZERLINA I wonder says she truly!

DON GIOVANNI Cupid, inspire me! softly to Elvira Can you chide, dear Elvira, A little harmless pastime?

DONNA ELVIRA aloud Harmless pastime? Indeed, Sir! Harmless pastime! Deceitful man I know too much of your pastime.

ZERLINA But, my lord, please to tell me, Has she the right to say this?

DON GIOVANNI softly to Zerlina She's so infatuated! But I must treat her kindly, She cannot bear from my side to be parted, Unfortunately I am too tenderhearted.

Nr. 8 - Aria

DONNA ELVIRA The traitor means deceit!



His flatt'ry heed thou not, While yet there's time, retreat, Or woe befall thee. From wrong unjust and cruel, From long remorse and tears, From wasted lonely years I would recall thee.

Exit, leading off Zerlina.

Don Giovanni, then Don Octavio and Donna Anna.

DON GIOVANNI It seems as if the very imp of mischief, This day were bent on thwarting all my pleasures; Nothing goes as I wish it.

DON OCTAVIO Now dearest, weep no more, look to the future; Let us speak but of vengeance. Ah! Don Giovanni!

DON GIOVANNI (Here comes the final blow!)

DONNA ANNA Good, Sir, this meeting is opportune: I know your courage, have you a heart that can feel compassion?

DON GIOVANNI (Now I wonder if that same friend Has set her on to track me) What a question! And why?

DONNA ANNA We are in trouble, And have need of your friendship.

DON GIOVANNI (This time I'm out of danger) Pray, command me, All I can do, friends and vassals, My right hand, my possessions, my sword... Nay, life itself I give to your service: But why, fairest Donn'Anna, why thus for ever mourning? Who has dar'd to invade the tranquil peace of that heart, With grief insidious?

Donna Elvira and the others

DONNA ELVIRA entering Ah, do we meet again? Monster perfidious!

Nr. 9 - Quartetto

DONNA ELVIRA Oh, ere thou trust in him, beware, His heart is cold as stone, Know that his vows are writ in air, I their deceit have known.

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO Heaven! A noble lady this! She sorely seems distraught! Her warning voice, her mien of woe, By bitter grief were taught!

DON GIOVANNI Poor girl, she's quite demented, I sorely do lament it! The fit may be prevented If she's by me besought.

DONNA ELVIRA The traitor, oh, believe him not! I pray you, friends, stay near me!



DON GIOVANNI Poor thing, she's quite demented!

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO Can I believe in aught? Sure some cause there must be for this raving... None can tell, none can tell what befell thee, None can tell what this grief on thee brought.

DONNA ELVIRA I'll pursue thee, for vengeance craving. Who will tell thee, Who'll tell what befell me! Who this grief, who this grief on me brought.

DON OCTAVIO aside Is she injur'd or deceiving, Ere we part from here, I'd know!

DONNA ANNA aside Great her sorrow, past relieving, But no madness doth she shew.

DON GIOVANNI While they scan me, unbelieving, From their presence I'll not go.

DONNA ELVIRA Friends, his wiles are past conceiving, Falsehood he will ne'er forego.

DON OCTAVIO to Don Giovanni Is this madness?

DON GIOVANNI To my great sorrow!

DONNA ANNA to Donna Elvira I'd befriend thee...

DONNA ELVIRA Oh, heed my prayer! Vile betrayer!

DON GIOVANNI Quite demented!

DONNA ELVIRA Vile betrayer!

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO Soon, me thinks the truth we'll know.

DON GIOVANNI to Donna Elvira Hush, be still, Thy silly raving will a rabble gather round us, Thy unwomanly behaving Makes me quite of thee ashamed.

DONNA ELVIRA to Don Giovanni Villain, darest thou to blame me? Through the world I will pursue thee, As a traitor I'll proclaim thee, For by thee I am defam'd!

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO aside, observing Don Giovanni Is he threat'ning? Is he pleading? Why those loud and angry whispers? These are signs not hard in reading, That her griefs by him were fram'd!



DON GIOVANNI Hush, be silent! Thou'lt a rabble gather round us! Hush, and stay thy silly raving, Thy behaving makes me quite of thee ashamed!

Exit Donna Elvira

Ah, poor afflicted creature! She needs a friend to watch o'er her steps; I go, that no evil may befall her. Then forgive me, dear lady, if I quit you, Till your summons demand me, Now and ever, devoted, your servant, command me!

Exit.

Don Octavio and Donna Anna.

Nr. 10 - Recitative and Aria

DONNA ANNA Don Octavio, oh help me!

DON OCTAVIO What disturbs thee?

DONNA ANNA I cannot comprehend it yet!

DON OCTAVIO My dearest, say, what hath happen'd?

DONNA ANNA Oh, heaven! Oh, heaven! That was the murderer of my dear Father!

DON OCTAVIO What say'st thou?

DONNA ANNA No longer can I doubt - his words at parting - His soft and honey'd voice - all bring before me, Past the chance of a doubt, The vile intruder, who dar'd into my chamber.

DON OCTAVIO Heav'n, is't possible, That 'neath the sacred mantle of long friendship... But proceed, the whole, oh, tell me, Of this dark adventure.

DONNA ANNA Shadows of midnight all around me were gathered; In my own quiet chamber Sitting alone, By misadventure and dreaming, When all at once there came in, wrapp'd in a mantle, A man, whom for the moment I had taken for thee. But soon I had discovered How great was my error!

DON OCTAVIO Horror, continue!

DONNA ANNA Silent he drew near me, And my hand would caress, Quick I withdrew it, and then he seized me... I struggled; No one was near, one hand upon my mouth he placed, My screaming to stifle, with the other he press'd me Close in his grasp - I scarcely could resist him.

DON OCTAVIO Miscreant! And then?

DONNA ANNA



At last my dread, My horror of the bastardly ruffian lent strength Unwonted for the moment, I struggled with tortuous writhings fearfully, With an effort I flung him from me.

DON OCTAVIO Oh, joy! That sav'd thee!

DONNA ANNA Aloud then I clamour'd for assistance, Call'd on the household, he sought to fly, But boldly I pursued him into the street, That we might trace him, (Becoming of my assailant assailer,) 'Twas there that my father straight-way challeng'd him, And the villain, by whose strength he was easily overpower'd, Stay'd not his guilty madness, gave him the deathblow.

The wretch now thou knowest, Who sought my betraying, And vengeance thou owest My father's, my father's foul slaying. For justice I sue thee; I ask of thy troth, I ask of thy troth. Remember when wounded, His lifeblood was flowing, Unsolaced, unshriven, He heard not, he heard not my crying, My heart will be riven, If thou break thy oath.

Exit

DON OCTAVIO alone I can scarely believe it, That of crimes so degrading a noble can be guilty! Closely I will pursue him, Till the truth is discovered, Ev'ry emotion, my allegiance to the dear one Whom my faith I have plighted, Bids me avenge her wrongs and see her righted.

Nr. 10 a - Aria

On her, my treasure, all joy dependeth, Life hath no pleasure, but that she sendeth, Sorrows that grieve her, torture my heart, E'en when she sigheth, my sighs awaken, And joy it dieth, by her forsaken; Oh, worst of torments, from her to part!

Exit.

Leporello alone, then Don Giovanni.

LEPORELLO I'll stay with him no longer, I will not have this madman for a master! See, there he comes, look at him, So cool, just as if nothing e'er had happened.

DON GIOVANNI Well, how are matters going, my Leporello?

LEPORELLO Much worse they scarcely could be, my gay young master.

DON GIOVANNI Worse say'st thou? How can that be?

LEPORELLO To your palace I took all those peasants, According to your orders.

DON GIOVANNI



Bravo!

LEPORELLO By dint of persuasion, much flatt'ry and some lying, Which your shining example well has taught me, I for a while detain'd them...

DON GIOVANNI Bravo!

LEPORELLO Then I had some trouble to quiet that Masetto, No easy task to soothe his jealous anger.

DON GIOVANNI Bravo! Nothing could be better.

LEPORELLO Well, there I feasted them, the wine was flowing freely, They regal'd themselves nobly, Some were singing, some were dancing, Some did nothing but drink; All on a sudden, can you guess who burst in on us?

DON GIOVANNI Zerlina!

LEPORELLO Bravo! Now guess who was with her?

DON GIOVANNI Why, Elvira!

LEPORELLO Just, so, and speaking of you...

DON GIOVANNI As of a wretch hanging were too good for.

LEPORELLO Shrewdly guess'd, nothing could be better.

DON GIOVANNI What said you to her raving?

LEPORELLO Nothing.

DON GIOVANNI She scolded?

LEPORELLO Yes, that she did.

DON GIOVANNI And you?

LEPORELLO When it appear'd As if the storm were subsiding, From the house I gently led her conversing, And there I left her, lock'd fast the door, Put the key into my pocket, Outside she may pursue her lamentations.

DON GIOVANNI Leporello, thou'rt a genius! 'Twas managed to perfection. Soon I will finish what so well you've begun. But now these country-girls with their gay sports invite me, We will return to them. I'll now delight me.

Nr. 11 - Aria

DON GIOVANNI For a carousal, Where all is madness



Where all is gladness, Do thou prepare. Maids are pretty, Dames that are witty, All to my castle Bid them repair. I'll have no discipline, Folly shall rule it, Some minuetting, Each one shall fool it Some a fandango, So they are fair, Some minuetting, So they are fair! Then in the gloaming, Pensively roaming, Some pretty damsel with me will stray... Beauties in plenty my list adorning, Will, ere the morning, Not say me nay, none say me nay.

Exeunt.

SCENE IV A garden. Two closed doors in the wall. Two alcoves. Zerlina, Masetto, chorus of peasants, scattered here and there, sitting or lying on banks of turf.

ZERLINA Masetto, hear me speak, I say, Masetto...

MASETTO Let me alone!

ZERLINA And why?

MASETTO And why, you ask me? Faithless girl! No longer I'll bear your caprices, Since no longer you love me.

ZERLINA No, no, you are mistaken, Oh, how can you behave with such unkindness?

MASETTO How so? And have you the face to make excuses? A stranger leads you on, For him you leave me on the eve of our marriage, Both your faith and my honour forgetting, You rush on to your ruin! Oh, it is too much, If I did not contain myself I'd strike you.

ZERLINA But it was not my fault; If for the moment his flattery pleased me, How could I help it? Now, think of him no longer, There was no harm, his words I scarcely answered. Say, you believe me, ungrateful! Come here, strike me then, I'll bear it all, kill me if you think my fault so heinous, And then, my own Masetto, peace be between us.

Nr. 12 - Aria

Canst thou see me, unforgiven, Here in sorrow stand and languish? Oh, Masetto, end my anguish, Come, and let's be friends again. Oh, believe I sore repent it, But I did not understand. Come, no longer then resent it, Give me kindly thy dear hand, Ah, confess it, thou no longer, canst withstand me. Peace and joy once more shall bless us,



While united and delighted All our days shall sweetly glide.

MASETTO 'Tis no use my resting, little witch, you've cajol'd me! When a woman's determined, Who can stay her?

DON GIOVANNI Soon will the guests assemble, let all be ready.

ZERLINA Ah, Masetto, hark, 'tis his lordship, How his voice makes me tremble!

MASETTO Why should it, pray?

ZERLINA He comes.

MASETTO I do not mind him.

ZERLINA Oh, for a corner To hide myself from him!

MASETTO Why do you tremble? Why do you thus change countenance? Ah, I see it, there is something between you, And you dread I should know it, Flirt that you are, your terrors plainly shew it.

Nr. 13 - Finale

MASETTO Quickly, quickly, I'll outwit him, In some nook I'll creep and watch him. None will see me, I will watch him, Here in safety I can wait.

ZERLINA Softly, softly, why this hiding? Oh, dear Masetto, do not grieve me, Think that if my lord perceive thee, Sure his anger will be great.

MASETTO Let him say whate'er he pleases.

ZERLINA (All he wishes straight he seizes).

MASETTO Why, speak out, what art thou fearing?

ZERLINA Do not bawl so in my hearing...

MASETTO sotto voce If she would blind me, And my anger shall be subdued. Hides in an alcove

ZERLINA sotto voce He doth use me - most unkindly, He's to-day in surly mood.

Enter Don Giovanni with four gaily dressed servants.

DON GiOVANNI Come, let all be mirth and gladness! Deeply quaff the draught of pleasure!



Let your revels have no measure, We will turn the night to day, to the servants Those who are for pirouetting, Give them music in the ballroom, Those whose turn is for coquetting, In the garden let them stray, gaily pass the time away.

CHORUS Come, let all be mirth and gladness! Deeply quaff the draught of pleasure! Our delights shall have no measure, We will turn the night to day.

Exeunt of servants and peasants.

Don Giovanni, Zerlina and Masetto hidden in alcove.

ZERLINA trying to hide herself In this arbour I will hide me, None my presence here perceiving.

DON GIOVANNI Sweet Zerlina, I'm beside thee. To escape a lover's glance will ne'er succeed!

detains her

ZERLINA Ah, my lord, I'm greatly frighten'd!

DON GIOVANNI Oh, how fair! With colour heighten'd!

ZERLINA If thou'rt kind, I pray thee, leave me.

DON GIOVANNI All my heart's thine own, believe me, To yon arbour let me guide thee, There a tender tale I'll plead.

ZERLINA Ah, how would Masetto chide me, If thy flatt'ries I should heed, he would chide.

Don Giovanni goes towards the alcove, sees Masetto, and stands petrified.

DON GIOVANNI Masetto?

MASETTO Yes, Masetto!

DON GIOVANNI So surly? Wherefore, pray? Zerlina here, is sighing. Because the hours are flying. And thou from her away.

MASETTO ironically Your kindness would... I might repay!

DON GIOVANNI Come, think of no unkindness, Where music gay invites us, We'll frolic, dance and play.

ZERLINA and MASETTO He means us no unkindness, Where music gay invites us, Come let us haste away.

Exeunt.

Enter Don Octavio, Donna Anna, and Donna Flvira, masked, then Don



Giovanni and Leporello.

DONNA ELVIRA We come in night and darkness, By just resentment guided, To heav'n we have confided Our trust, our trust this woe to end.

DON OCTAVIO His daring crimes resenting, Her grevious wrongs lamenting, Allay thy fears, oh, dearest, Thy cause I will defend.

DONNA ANNA My heart with hope thou cheerest, Our path is full of danger, I tremble for thee, oh, dearest, And thee, oh, gentle friend!

LEPORELLO Sir, see those charming maskers, Here standing just below us!

DON GIOVANNI Hoping they may not know us, Ask will they please ascend!

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA and DON OCTAVIO That voice, and manner, surely 'Tis he whom we are seeking!

LEPORELLO 'St, 'st, ye gentle maskers, stay, 'st, 'st.

DONNA ANNA and DONNA ELVIRA to Don Octavio What would he ask us?

DON OCTAVIO What is your pleasure?

LEPORELLO My master sends t'invite you An hour with him to spend.

DON OCTAVIO Thanks, we accept with pleasure, His courteous invitation.

LEPORELLO Without premeditation, Straightway they condescend.

Goes in and shuts the window.

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO Thou Pow'r above be near us, Our hopes on thee depend!

DONNA ELVIRA Thou wilt avenge, and hear us. To me thou'lt justice send!

Exeunt.

SCENE V A brilliantly lighted ballroom. Don Giovanni is handing some young girls to seats. Leporello is amongst the men; a dance is just over. Zerlina, Masetto.

DON GIOVANNI Pretty maidens, now rest from your dancing.

LEPORELLO



Cooling drinks ye all want to refresh ye.

DON GIOVANNI and LEPORELLO If I lose now your presence entrancing, You must promise me soon to return.

DON GIOVANNI Here some coffee!

LEPORELLO Chocolate.

DON GIOVANNI Here, some ice!

MASETTO Oh, Zerlina, be prudent!

LEPORELLO Confectionaries!

ZERLINA and MASETTO aside There's too much of this giddy careening, You will see that to grief it will turn.

DON GIOVANNI caressingly Ever charming, my pretty Zerlina!

ZERLINA You're so kind.

MASETTO enraged How the flirt is coquetting!

LEPORELLO amongst the girls, imitating his master Always lovely, my fine Alphonsina!

MASETTO That my cane to thy back I were setting!

ZERLINA (That Masetto will get into trouble, All my plans he is sure to o'erturn)

DON GIOVANNI and LEPORELLO That Masetto will get into trouble, How to punish this rustic I burn.

Enter Don Octavio, Donna Anna and Donna Elvira, masked.

LEPORELLO Ye, maskers fair, to greet you. My master is advancing.

DON GIOVANNI Come nearer I entreat you, Welcome I say to all!

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA and DON OCTAVIO We thank your kindly greeting, We join your festive ball.

DON GIOVANNI I pray you, enter, come nearer, Welcome, welcome I say to all. Now play another measure! to Leporello Go thou and place the dancers!

LEPORELLO Quite joyous they appear not.

DONNA ELVIRA



to Donna Anna That is the peasant maiden.

DONNA ANNA I tremble!

DON OCTAVIO Courage, fear not.

DON GIOVANNI She's beyond recall!

LEPORELLO and MASETTO What says he? She's beyond recall?

DON GIOVANNI to Leporello Just keep away Masetto. to Zerlina Ne'er such a charming partner, Zerlina, Zerlina, did I see!

begins to dance with Zerlina

LEPORELLO to Masetto Come, let us dance a bit together, Come, man, I say you shall.

MASETTO No, no, I will not bear it!

LEPORELLO Come dance, all eyes are on thee!

DONNA ANNA My terror hath undone me!

DONNA ELVIRA and DON OCTAVIO Be firm, thy wrongs recall.

DON GIOVANNI Dearest, a grace concede me, let me lead thee.

leads Zerlina off against her will

ZERLINA Ah, whither dost thou lead me?

Leporello forces Masetto to dance with him.

MASETTO Let me go! Let go! - Zerlina!

LEPORELLO This fellow will undo us!

Exit hastily.

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA and DON OCTAVIO His guilty course fulfilling, He rushes on his fall!

ZERLINA from within Help, oh, help me, friends, oh haste ye!

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA and DON OCTAVIO Not another moment waste we!

Musician: exeunt

MASETTO Oh, Zerlina!

ZERLINA her voice is heard at the other side



Oh, thou traitor!

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA and DON OCTAVIO She is there, Oh let us haste to extricate her!

ZERLINA Oh, thou traitor! Ah, away from me!

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA, DON OCTAVIO and MASETTO We are near, thou art protected!

DON GIOVANNI comes out holding Leporello by the arm, he pretends as though he would stab him, but does not take his sword out of the scabbard. Here's the scoundrel! Just detected! Now receive thy just reward, Thy just reward! Wretch, thou diest!

LEPORELLO Oh, pray, have done, Sir!

DON GIOVANNI Churl, thou liest!

DON OCTAVIO taking out a pistol Get you gone, Sir!

DONNA ELVIRA, DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO unmasking Falsehood here will not avail thee! Thou thyself art now ensnared, yes, ensnared.

DON GIOVANNI Donna Elvira?

DONNA ELVIRA Shame upon thee.

DON GIOVANNI Don Ottavio!

DON OCTAVIO Shame upon thee!

DON GIOVANNI to Donna Anna On my honour...

DONNA ANNA Shame upon thee!

ZERLINA AND MASETTO Shame upon thee, nought can now thy fate retard.

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA, DON OCTAVIO, ZERLINA and MASETTO Tremble, tremble, vile betrayer, To the world we will proclaim thee, As a villain men will name thee, Be evermore abhorr'd! Fear the wrath of heav'n offended, Fear its thunders o'er thee breaking, That thy reckless course o'ertaking, On thy guilty head will fall.

DON GIOVANNI and LEPORELLO Not my (his) custom 'tis to tremble sotto voce What a storm on me (him) has broken, I (He) no longer can dissemble, 'Tis a scrape, upon my word. But my (his) courage ne'er forsook me, (him) And I'll (He) face the matter boldly, All their threats shall not withhold me, (him) Tho' a sign from heav'n should fall.



ACT TWO

SCENE I A street

Nr. 14 - Duetto

DON GIOVANNI I'll not believe thee, what e'er thou say!

LEPORELLO I would not grieve ye, but I'll not stay!

DON GIOVANNI Do I illuse thee?

LEPORELLO Pray, sir, excuse me!

DON GIOVANNI My wrath I'll stifle, say, what has chill'd thee?

LEPORELLO Oh, a mere trifle, you've nearly kill'd me.

DON GIOVANNI Thou foolish fellow, 'twas all in fun.

LEPORELLO Such fun I like not, no, I thank you, With me you've done!

Tries to go, Don Giovanni detains him.

DON GIOVANNI Leporello!

LEPORELLO I hear, sir.

DON GIOVANNI gives him money Come here, this will make peace between us.

LEPORELLO What, sir?

DON GIOVANNI Four gold pieces.

LEPORELLO Oh, now listen, This is the last time I'll take such compensation, You'll find yourself mistaken, If you think to soothe a man of my mettle Like those poor women, by coin and empty phrases.

DON GIOVANNI There's enough on that score! Say, are You ready now to do me a small service?

LEPORELLO So you give up the women.

DON GIOVANNI Give up the women! Mad man, They're my first necessity of life, More than the bread that feeds me, Or the air I am breathing.

LEPORELLO Is't your intention they shall all be deceiv'd thus?

DON GIOVANNI For love I do it. Who to one is devoted,



To the rest must be faithless; Mine is a heart Of such infinite affection, There is not one I love not; And yet the women, dear unreas'ning creatures, My happy disposition call deceiving.

LEPORELLO Indeed I cannot follow such a huge disposition For deeds of kindness, But what is your small service?

DON GIOVANNI Listen! Say, have you seen the pretty damsel Of Donna Elvira?

LEPORELLO Not I.

DON GIOVANNI It is your loss then not to see what is charming, My sober Leporello, With her this instant I would fain try my fortune, And it has struck me, as evening is upon us, 'tWould make the jest both new and more diverting, If I put on thy cloak in this adventure.

LEPORELLO I can see no occasion For this strange masquerading.

DON GIOVANNI Alas, a gentleman is apt To be suspected by people of her station. takes off his cloak Give it me, make haste!

LEPORELLO Oh, Sir, for sev'ral reasons...

DON GIOVANNI Delay me not! Delays in love are treasons! They exchange cloaks.

Donna Elvira (at the window). Don Giovanni, Leporello. It gradually becomes dark.

Nr. 15 - Terzetto

DONNA ELVIRA Oh hush, sad heart, from grieving. Thy days of joy are over, The traitor with wiles deceiving, Hath broke my heart in twain.

LEPORELLO Softly, 'tis Donna Elvira, Per change, you might regain her.

DON GIOVANNI Thou here a while detain her, I'll soon come back again. stands behind Leporello Elvira, hear my sighing!

DONNA ELVIRA Ah, is it thou, ungrateful?

DON GIOVANNI 'Tis I, and fondly relying, My love thou'lt not disdain.

DONNA ELVIRA Strangely his words affect me. Love, oh, do thou direct me!

LEPORELLO



She must be of the maddest, In him to trust again.

DON GIOVANNI Oh come in beauty beaming, Oh come, through starlight gleaming, My tender love requiting, Oh, come, o'er this heart to reign!

DONNA ELVIRA Oh, ne'er can I believe again!

DON GIOVANNI Ah, do believe!

LEPORELLO to Don Giovanni I cannot keep from laughing!

DON GIOVANNI I conjure thee!

DONNA ELVIRA For this my heart has panted, Shall I refuse or grant it? By some enchantment spell-bound, Quite fled is my disdain.

disappears from the window

DON GIOVANNI She thinks I have recanted. Poor girl she's quite enchanted. To trick a thousand others, I feel quite in the vein.

LEPORELLO Great is the pow'r of lying! Truly the trick is clever, No great endeavour, now needs it, Her silly heart to gain.

DON GIOVANNI in great spirits Well, am I not in luck?

LEPORELLO You may be lucky, but you've a heart of marble.

DON GIOVANNI Come, come, you're growing prosy! Now learn your part, sir; When she makes her appearance, Run to her and embrace her, Do not spare your caresses, Emulate well your master; Next you must find a pretext That calls you both off to some distance.

LEPORELLO But supposing....

DON GIOVANNI That is settled then.

LEPORELLO And should she recognize me?

DON GIOVANNI If she should recognize you, you're a block- head. Silence, she's coming, now, attention.

He runs off to the side, leaving Leporello alone. Donna Elvira enters from the house, she advances to meet Leporello, Don Giovanni watches their movements from the side.

DONNA ELVIRA Once more we meet then.



DON GIOVANNI (I'll stay awhile and watch)

LEPORELLO (Confound it!)

DONNA ELVIRA Say, oh dare I believe that my devotion At length touch'd thy heart? And now repentant, my dearly lov'd Giovanni, To me returning, once more to joy restores me?

LEPORELLO Yes, my treasure.

DONNA ELVIRA Ah, faithless! I'll not tell thee all the misery, The sighs and the tears That thou hast cost me!

LEPORELLO I, lovely creature?

DONNA ELVIRA Who else?

LEPORELLO Oh, poor darling. 'Twas too bad to do so.

DONNA ELVIRA You'll leave me, nevermore?

LEPORELLO No, pretty creature!

DONNA ELVIRA And you are mine for ever?

LEPORELLO Ever!

DONNA ELVIRA How dear you are!

LEPORELLO How very dear! (This part is not unpleasant)

DONNA ELVIRA My belov'd one.

LEPORELLO Oh yes, my dear.

DONNA ELVIRA How I love thee, thou knowest.

LEPORELLO I love you dreadfully.

DON GIOVANNI (It seems the rascal's warming)

DONNA ELVIRA You'll never more deceive me?

LEPORELLO Never, never.

DONNA ELVIRA Then swear it me.

LEPORELLO By this white hand I swear it, Which, if you please, I'll kiss, dear, By those bright eyes.



DON GIOVANNI pretends to waylay them Ih, eh, ah, ah; surrender!

DONNA ELVIRA and LEPORELLO escapes with Leporello O, heaven!

DON GIOVANNI Ih, eh, ih, eh, ah, ah! Now fortune help me to persuade her, all's quiet. This, I think, is the window; I'll serenade her.

Nr. 16 - Canzonetta

From out thy casement glancing, oh, smile upon me, With sighs of hapless love I sing this ditty. Thy bosom I would move, thou hast undone me, Oh, grant the pray'r of love, and shew some pity!

Than roses art thou fairer, than honey sweeter, Balmier 'tis when thou sighest than western breezes, Oh, come, my fair, descend, I entreat thee! Death shall my torments end, if death thee pleases.

Don Giovanni; afterwards Masetto, armed with gun and pistol, and some armed villagers.

DON GIOVANNI There's some one at the window, is 't my charmer? 'st, st...

MASETTO Come on and fear not; I have a notion that we may find him here.

DON GIOVANNI (There's some one speaking)

MASETTO Hush, what was that? It seemed as if I heard some one whisper.

DON GIOVANNI (As I live, that's Masetto!)

MASETTO Who goes there? No one answers, Boldly now, gun to shoulder! Who goes there?

DON GIOVANNI There are sev'ral, I must be cautious. imitating the voice of Leporello Good comrades That beginning's not bad. Sure that's Masetto?

MASETTO in a rage You're not far out there, and you?

DON GIOVANNI Why, don't you know me? The servant am I of Don Giovanni.

MASETTO Leporello, servant of that dishonorable villain?

DON GIOVANNI Alas, of that same rascal.

MASETTO Say: that man lost to all honour; Ah, then you just can tell me where we may find him; These friends and I are seeking him to kill him.

DON GIOVANNI very pleasant



You've a good head, Masetto! I'll do my best to help you, And play a trick upon my graceless master; I have a plan will help to take him faster.

Nr. 17 - Aria

DON GIOVANNI Go half to left, and half to right, The road to pioneer, And by the way look every where, He can't be far from here, If any you catch straying, Some youth and maid delaying, Or 'neath a window sighing, An am'rous ditty plying, Then strike him well and spare not My master then is near. Upon his hat a feather, A cloak his form concealing. He bears in ev'ry weather, Ne'er knew he doubt or fear. Haste away, as I've directed. Exit villagers Thou, friend, abide with me, Somewhat I have relected, The end you soon shall see.

goes off, holding Masetto

Don Giovanni, Masetto.

DON GIOVANNI Softly, first let us listen, that no one's coming. So you're resolv'd on killing him?

MASETTO Determin'd.

DON GIOVANNI 'Twould do, if with a blow you were to stun him, Or to give him a hiding.

MASETTO No, no, I'll surely kill him, I'll cut him into pieces.

DON GIOVANNI Shew your weapons.

MASETTO They're good ones hands musket and pistol to Don Giovanni Look here, I have a musket, Besides there is this pistol.

DON GIOVANNI Besides these?

MASETTO I thought that they're quite sufficient...

DON GIOVANNI beats him with the flat of his sword They're quite sufficient, we'll try them? There's something for your pistol, There's something for your musket.

MASETTO Oh, my poor head is broken.

DON GIOVANNI Hush, or you're dead, man! Here's for your promis'd killing, Know, ere you cut in pieces, You spiteful bragging knave, Fortune's caprices!



Exit.

Masetto. Then Zerlina.

MASETTO crying out Oh, oh , my head is broken, Oh, oh, my backbone, my shoulder.

ZERLINA with a lantern Did I hear some speaking? I thought it was Masetto!

MASETTO Oh, dear Zerlina, Zerlina dearest, come help me!

ZERLINA What has happen'd?

MASETTO The villain, the base assassin Has left no bone unbroken.

ZERLINA Oh, dear, what can I do! Who?

MASETTO Leporello, or else some friend, that looked exactly like him.

ZERLINA The wretch! Did I not tell you that your jealous And most unruly temper would surely bring you Ere long into some trouble? Where does it hurt you?

MASETTO Here.

ZERLINA Besides, where?

MASETTO Here and also here.

ZERLINA Is nothing else the matter?

MASETTO Yes, there's something with this foot, And this elbow, I cannot bend it.

ZERLINA Come, come; if that's the worst, there's no great harm done. Come with me home to supper, And give your faithful promise, you'll nevermore be jealous; Those bruises can be cured, where love is zealous.

Nr. 18 - Aria

Come, shall I tell thee, How what befell thee, Soon can be cured By my potent charm? No garden grows it, Though it aboundeth, Like furnace glows it, Yet none 'twill harm, All guard and cherish it: Gold cannot buy it, Say, wilt thou try it Soft 'tis, and warm. Has thy wit flown, Hear, how it throbs within, lays his hand on her heart 'Tis all thine own,



Ah, 'tis thine only,

Exit with Masetto.

SCENE II A dark courtyard, with three doors, before the house of Donna Anna.

LEPORELLO Lights ev'rywhere surround us, Some are coming this way, we'll stand aside here, Where they will not perceive us.

DONNA ELVIRA My ador'd one, and why should they not see us?

LEPORELLO Oh, for reasons, certain precautions... Just let me see, I think they are retreating. How shall I fly, and she not perceive me? My dear, wait here a moment. Leporello goes further away

DONNA ELVIRA Ah, do not leave me!

Nr. 19 - Sestetto

DONNA ELVIRA All around so dark and lonely, O'er my heart a fear is stealing, Such a tremor, past all concealing, As if death itself were near.

LEPORELLO groping his way Deuce is in it, where's the doorway? These confounded walls on every side surround it! Softly, softly, I have found it... misses it again Stars be thanked, the coast is clear!

Enter Don Octavio and Donna Anna in mourning.

DON OCTAVIO Cease from grieving, oh, belov'd one, Think thy father sees from heaven, How sore for him thy heart is riven, Let a smile at last appear.

DONNA ANNA Ah, believe, I know thy kindness, But I cannot cease lamenting, Ev'ry effort, ev'ry effort, but augmenting Grief for him I hold so dear, I hold so dear.

DONNA ELVIRA unseen by the others Oh, my husband, I have lost thee!

LEPORELLO by the door, unseen by the others Not for words, I'd have her find me.

DONNA ELVIRA and LEPORELLO Sure the door must be behind me. Ha! The door, escape is near.

as he is going out, Zerlina and Masetto enter.

Zerlina, Masetto and the others.

ZERLINA and MASETTO Wretch, now we hold thee, whither art going?

DONNA ANNA and DON OCTAVIO Nought now can save thee, why art thou here?



DONNA ANNA, DON OCTAVIO, ZERLINA and MASETTO Ah, thou perfidious one! Death here we swear thee!

DONNA ELVIRA Oh, heav'n forbear ye! He is my husband dear!

DONNA ANNA, DON OCTAVIO, ZERLINA and MASETTO 'Tis Donna Elvira! She for him pleading? Her wrongs all unheeding? No, no, no, he dics!

LEPORELLO as though in tears Good friends, oh, spare me! You are quite mistaken! Oh, how you scare me! But, oh for pity's sake ... for pity's sake... Oh, kill me not.

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA, DON OCTAVIO, ZERLINA and MASETTO What! Leporello? My eyes deceive me! Who would believe me? This is some plot.

LEPORELLO Fear and doubting quite distract me, All my head is in confusion, Would indeed 'twere a delusion, And I safely from this spot.

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA, ZERLINA, DON OCTAVIO and MASETTO Fear and doubting quite distract me, All my head is in confusion, 'Tis a vision, a vile delusion! Be this masking, be this masking ne'er forgot!

Exit Donna Anna with servants.

ZERLINA It was you, then, who with your cruel blows, This very night, nearly kill'd my poor Masetto!

DONNA ELVIRA It was you, heartless ribald, who beguil'd me, Who led me forth as though 'twere Don Giovanni!

DON OCTAVIO Why dost thou wear those garments? Thou must be here for some unlawful purpose!

DONNA ELVIRA 'Tis I who will chastise him.

ZERLINA So will I.

DON OCTAVIO No, no, 'tis I.

MASETTO How this viper to crush, we all will try.

Nr. 20 - Aria

LEPORELLO Ah, be not so hard upon me, Give me leave, good friends, to speak! Wrongs like yours surely had undone me. But, believe me, I am not he you seek. I will tell you how my master, did from bad to worse descend. Donna Elvira, do you tell them, By what arts he gains his end; As for thee, I've not a notion what befell thee; As this lady here can tell thee, For I met her, with him philand'ring, Well I knew how all would end; And to your lordship, I will admit it, I've acted wrongly, not as befitted...



I know I've trespas'd, I ask your pardon, Lost in the darkness, I entered the garden, Not thought t'offend. 'Twas a blunder; Greatly I wonder, how all was known! Masters, I would now with speed be gone.

Making for the door and runs out.

Donna Elvira, Zerline, Don Octavio and Masetto.

DONNA ELVIRA Hold, thou shalt not escape me!

MASETTO He flies like any feather...

ZERLINA And how neatly, he evaded our question.

DON OCTAVIO Friends, this confirms me, and the crimes we have witnessed We no further can doubt, That Don Giovanni was the villain murd'rer of Donna Anna's father. Do me the favour here awhile yet to stay with her. I will go now, and seek the law's assistance. The day of reck'ning is at hand, oh, thou traitor, And thy doom is assured, or sooner or later.

Nr. 21 - Aria

DON OCTAVIO To my beloved, o hasten, To comfort, to comfort her sad heart. Sweet are the tears that chasten, Yet grieve not those who part. Tell her, to see her righted, Ne'er will I cease pursuing, My sword and faith I've plighted. Nought my resolve shall thwart.

Exeunt.

Nr. 21 b - Recitative and Aria

DONNA ELVIRA In what abysses of error, into what dangers, Thy reckless path pursuing, Have guilt and folly brought thee! The wrath of heaven will surely overwhelm thee, It is swift to destroy. The lightning flash of retribution impendeth, It will soon be upon thee! Eternal ruin at last will be thy doom. Wretched Elvira! What a tempest within thee, thy heart divideth! Ah, wherefore is this longing? These pangs of sorrow?

Cruel heart, thou hast betray'd me, Grief unending upon me he cast. Pity yet lingers, I'll not upbraid thee, Ne'er can I forget the past, the happy past. When my wrongs arise before me, Thoughts of vengeance stir my bosom, But the love that at first he bore me, Binds my heart to him at last. Exit.

SCENE III An enclosed churchyard, several equestrian statues, statue of the Commandant.

Don Giovanni and Leporello.

DON GIOVANNI leaps over the wall, laughing Ha, ha, ha, ha! Most amusing, They will not seek me here. What splendid moonlight! 'Tis as light as in daytime;



This is just such a night as suits for the chase of pretty damsels. What time is't? Ah, not yet two o'clock in the morning; I wish now I knew how the droll encounter ended Between that poor Elvira and Leporello. Let me hope he was prudent!

LEPORELLO 'Faith I think he's determin'd on my ruin.

DON GIOVANNI I hear him. Well, Leporello?

LEPORELLO Some one call'd me?

DON GIOVANNI Don't you yet know my voice?

LEPORELLO I don't know it at all, sir.

DON GIOVANNI What has happen'd?

LEPORELLO On your account I have almost been murdered.

DON GIOVANNI Indeed? How very lucky, 'twas an honour for you.

LEPORELLO Pray, keep such honours.

DON GIOVANNI How now? I spoke in fun. Come let me tell you a pleasant thing.

LEPORELLO Whatever brings you here?

DON GIOVANNI Come down and I will tell you, I got into some trouble, Ev'rything has gone wrong since last I saw you, That we'll leave for the present; One bit of scandal I must tell you at once.

LEPORELLO Some new flirtation.

DON GIOVANNI You're out there. As I was walking, I espied a fair damsel with the gait of a Juno; Of course I followed, I tried to take her hand, She seem'd uncertain, something tender I whisper'd, And she mistook me, Guess for whom?

LEPORELLO I can't think.

DON GIOVANNI For Leporello.

LEPORELLO For me?

DON GIOVANNI For you.

LEPORELLO How pleasant!

DON GIOVANNI By the hand, Then 'twas her turn to seize me.



LEPORELLO Better and better.

DON GIOVANNI She caress'd me, embraced me, 'Oh, my dear Leporello! Leporello, my darling!' At once it struck me, She was one of your sweethearts.

LEPORELLO Curses be on you!

DON GIOVANNI I did not undeceive her, but after a good while she knew me, Took fright, at her shrieking people came, I shot by them, nimbly and swiftly, Espied this wall, and leap'd in safety over.

LEPORELLO And you dare tell me this As if it were a good story?

DON GIOVANNI And why not?

LEPORELLO What if she were my wife, Then would you laugh, Sir?

DON GIOVANNI laughs loudly All the louder.

THE STATUE Your jest will turn to woe, ere it is morning.

DON GIOVANNI Who was speaking?

LEPORELLO Oh, some soul tormented, From the land of spirits, Pays homage to your merits.

DON GIOVANNI puts his hand to his sword, looks about among the tombs and strikes at some of the statues Silence, rascal. Who goes there?

THE STATUE Misguided, perverted, Anger not the departed!

LEPORELLO As I told you!

DON GIOVANNI It must be some one Hiding by yon wall laughing at us. Say, can that hideous structure be the Commandant's statue? That inscription I'd like to hear.

LEPORELLO Excuse me, my eyesight is indiff'rent bad, I cannot read by moonlight.

DON GIOVANNI Read, I tell you.

LEPORELLO reads «I here await the vengeance Decreed by Heaven upon a base assassin». - You hear it? I tremble!

DON GIOVANNI An exquisite buffoonery! Tell the old man



I ask him to sup with me this evening.

LEPORELLO You are mad! What is that, oh, do you see him? What a terrible light in his eyes! He sees us. He can hear us! Oh, what if he would speak!

DON GIOVANNI Be quick, obey! Or I will kill you, And in this churchyard lay you.

LEPORELLO Oh, unfortunate me! I must obey you.

Nr. 22 - Duetto

LEPORELLO Oh, thou most noble monument, Our Commandant resembling, Oh, sir, see how I'm trembling, I cannot further go.

DON GIOVANNI Proceed at once, or I'll spear thee, I'll kill thee at a blow. His cowardice diverts me. How can one tremble so?

LEPORELLO He's madder now than ever. If I could only go. to the statue Oh, thou most noble monument, I speak with fear and wonder, Master, look! Oh, look yonder, See how his eyeballs glow, see how his eyeballs glow.

DON GIOVANNI Die then.

LEPORELLO No, no, oh, wait a moment! My master here invites thee, Not I, great sir, it frights me, To sup with him this night. the statue nods its head Ah, ah, ah, I'm not inventing, He nods, he nods consenting!

DON GIOVANNI Thou fool, what's there to scare thee?

LEPORELLO Oh, master, oh look yourself and spare me!

DON GIOVANNI What is this wondrous sight?

LEPORELLO See, with his head of marble, imitates the statue He nods, just so, just so.

DON GIOVANNI See, with his head of marble, He nods just so. to the statue Give answer, if thou hear'st me, Wilt come to supper?

THE STATUE Yea!

LEPORELLO Now we are ruin'd truly, He takes it all so coolly,



Oh, let us go, oh master, my limbs I cannot steady, To run away is best, oh, come, to run away is best.

DON GIOVANNI Ah, strange adventure truly, He hath accepted duly, Come let us go, make ready, To meet this stony guest.

Exeunt.

SCENE IV A darkened chamber

Donna Anna and Don Octavio.

DON OCTAVIO Yes, all now reassures us; The hand of justice will soon arrest his course Of guilt and folly, and we shall be aveng'd.

DONNA ANNA My father, I've lost him!

DON OCTAVIO What is decreed by heaven We must patiently bear, Oh, rouse thee, my dearest, from the sad recollection; Brighter days are before thee, say to-morrow Thou wilt bless my affection, Let thy hand be the pledge.

DONNA ANNA Ah, no, how can'st thou speak of joy when I'm weeping?

DON OCTAVIO Ah then, since faithful love or pray'rs cannot move thee, Too well I see that thou dost not love me!

Nr. 23 - Recitative and Aria

DONNA ANNA Not love thee? Ah, ne'er believe it! Could I accept, while my tears yet freshly flow, The blest fulfilment of my heart's dearest wishes? I cannot, I dare not, ah, nor seek to persuade me, Till my grief is assuaged, All my heart is thine own, of that be certain.

Tell me not, oh, thou belov'd one, That thou'rt constant to me in vain, That I love thee, ah well thou know'st it, That I'll ever thine remain, Stay, oh stay thy fond misgiving, Doubt me not, oh I conjure thee; Love and hope do both, do both assure me, That kind heaven yet will smile, will smile again.

Exit.

SCENE V A lighted hall. The table prepared for a banquet.

Don Giovanni, Leporello. Some musicians.

Nr. 24 - Finale

DON GIOVANNI Ah, I see the table's ready, Play a gay and festive measure. Costly is my cup of'pleasure; And I'll drain it to the end. Leporello, serve the supper.

LEPORELLO All is ready to command.



Musicians begin to play on the stage, Don Giovanni eating Bravi! «Cosa rara!»

DON GIOVANNI Is this music to thy liking?

LEPORELLO I must own I have heard some things more striking.

DON GIOVANNI Here's a dish to be commended!

LEPORELLO aside Would this meal were safely ended! While I watch his giant mouthfuls, I his courage comprehend.

DON GIOVANNI aside While he watches ev'ry mouthful, Who on me is to attend? Wine here!

LEPORELLO Ready! Long life to «I litiganti»!

DON GIOVANNI Fill my goblet! Leporello pours wine. Choice aroma, goodly vintage!

Leporello changes Don Giovanni's plate.

LEPORELLO aside I'll devour this piece of pheasant, Softly, softly, while I downwards bend.

DON GIOVANNI None to serve me, this is pleasant, Rascal, say, wilt thou attend?

LEPORELLO That's a song I have heard but too often.

DON GIOVANNI without looking at him Leporello!

LEPORELLO with his mouth full Yes, sir, coming!

DON GIOVANNI Well, speak out, man, what art thou mumbling?

LEPORELLO I beseech you, stay from grumbling, I've a cold that will not mend.

DON GIOVANNI I expect thee to amuse me.

LEPORELLO Sir, I can't.

DON GIOVANNI Why not?

LEPORELLO Excuse me! When such viands dainty invite me, Wonder not if I partake, wonder not if l partake.

DON GIOVANNI It is clear thou must partake, it is clear thou must partake.



Donna Elvira and the others.

DONNA ELVIRA rushing in distractedly Love bids me venture, One more endeavour, Ere we forever Asunder fly. Though you may scorn me, I'll not resent, I come to warn thee!

DON GIOVANNI and LEPORELLO rising Pray, why?

DONNA ELVIRA kneeling With love I've ended Joy long hath left me, Lone and unfriended I long to die.

DON GIOVANNI You quite surprise me. Your wish reveal then! If you must kneel then, Why, so must I - kneels

DONNA ELVIRA Cruel deride me not, For thee I'm sueing!

LEPORELLO Her wrongs are all forgot, For him she's sueing!

DON GIOVANNI Come, sweet one, chide me not! He gets up and raises her. Nay, sweet one, chide me not with affected tenderness Why wilt thou cry?

DONNA ELVIRA Thy life amend thou!

DON GIOVANNI Bravo!

DONNA ELVIRA Misguided one!

DON GIOVANNI This fooling end now seats himself again at the table, and begins to eat When thou hast supped well, No more thou'lt sigh!

DONNA ELVIRA Wretch, I abandon thee, More and more hateful, Ever detested be, Thee I disown!

Exit.

LEPORELLO If he relents not To see her grieving, His heart deceiving's hard as stone!

DON GIOVANNI Maidens both fair and young, Good wine, and plenty,



To these are praises due, To these alone!

Donna Elvira returns and rushes out at the opposite side.

DONNA ELVIRA Ah!

DON GIOVANNI and LEPORELLO A scream, what can have happen'd?

DON GIOVANNI Go and see, go and see, what is the matter.

LEPORELLO goes, and when off the stage cries out Ah!

DON GIOVANNI What ever means this clatter? Leporello art thou mad?

LEPORELLO Oh, good Sir! For heav'n sake, Not a step do that way take, Leporello returns dismayed, and shuts the door White and stony, he's behind me, Oh good master, I'm fainting, don't mind me, If you saw his marble features, If you heard him nearer draw, Ta, ta, ta, ta.

DON GIOVANNI I believe thou art demented. One could scare thee with a straw!

Knocking heard at the door.

LEPORELLO Hark! He's coming!

DON GIOVANNI Some one's knocking Open.

LEPORELLO trembling I dare not!

DON GIOVANNI Go this instant!

LEPORELLO Ah!

DON GIOVANNI Coward, if I would be enlightened, I must go myself and see, I'll go and see.

takes a light and goes to open the door

LEPORELLO Oh, to death I sure am frightened, Here I'll hide where none can see.

Leporello hides under the table.

The Commandant and the others.

THE COMMANDANT Don Giovanni! Be thee invited, Here behold me, as thou'st directed.

DON GIOVANNI Truly I did not expect it, But anew I'll sup with thee, Leporello, serve the table,



For my guest another cover!

LEPORELLO puts his head out from under the table Sir, be still, say no more!

DON GIOVANNI Go, directly!

Leporello rises as if to obey.

THE COMMANDANT No need of that, Earthly food he no longer desireth, Who of heavenly food hath partaken, Cast away from thee now all such trifling, Heed the sentence I hither have brought.

LEPORELLO Sure a fit of the ague hath seiz'd me, Of all motion bereft, I'm distraught!

DON GIOVANNI Well, what would'st thou? Well, I listen.

THE COMMANDANT Silence, and mark me, this hour thou hast sought.

DON GIOVANNI Speak then, tell me, of fear know I nought.

THE COMMANDANT Thou didst thyself invite me, For that I must requite thee, Then answer me, then answer me, As my guest, when shall I claim thee?

LEPORELLO standing far off, trembling Say no, say no; He is engag'd, excuse him.

DON GIOVANNI Of fear none shall accuse me, To none will I succumb!

THE COMMANDANT Determine!

DON GIOVANNI I have determined...

THE COMMANDANT Thou'lt come, then?

LEPORELLO Say that you can't, that you can't.

DON GIOVANNI My heart is firm within me, I have no fear, I'll come.

THE COMMANDANT Give me thy hand in token!

DON GIOVANNI Take it then. Ah, me!

THE COMMANDANT What is't?

DON GIOVANNI What deadly chill is this!

THE COMMANDANT Turn thee, ere heav'n hath doom'd thee, There's time yet for repentance.



DON GIOVANNI vainly tries to free himself For me there's no repentance, Vanish thou from my sight!

THE COMMANDANT Dread then, the wrath eternal.

DON GIOVANNI Away, thou spectre infernal!

THE COMMANDANT Yes, repent!

DON GIOVANNI No!

THE COMMANDANT Yes, repent!

DON GIOVANNI No!

THE COMMANDANT Yes!

DON GIOVANNI No!

THE COMMANDANT Yes! Now must my soul take flight!

Exit.

Flames appear in all directions, the earth trembles.

DON GIOVANNI Terrors unknown are freezing me, Demons of doom are seizing me, Is hell let loose to torture me? Or does it mock my sight?

CHORUS from below, with hollow voices Torments eternal wait thee! Burning in endless night!

DON GIOVANNI My soul is rent in agony! Condemn'd to endless misery, Oh, doom of wrath and terror, No more to see the light!

LEPORELLO The fire of doom surrounds him, Its fiery glare confounds him, What sounds, what sights of terror, Oh, I shall die, oh, I shall die of fright!

The flames increase and engulph Don Giovanni.

SCENE VI Donna Elvira, Donna Anna, Leporello, Zerlina, Don Octavio and Masetto.

DONNA ELVIRA, DONNA ANNA, ZERLINA and DON OCTAVIO Where is the miscreant? Where is the traitor?

MASETTO By fate o'ertaken. Now fallen low, now fallen low!

DONNA ANNA Seize him, Imprison him,



Who ne'er relented, No mercy shew.

LEPORELLO Not here you'll find him, For ever vanish'd, Flames went behind him, He's gone below.

ALL OTHERS Say, what befell him? Quick, tell us all you know.

LEPORELLO That man gigantic, he's driv'n me frantic. Nothing I'll garble, that man of marble, Grim and tremendous, oh, heav'n defend us. Came here and warn'd him. He madly scorn'd him, 'Mid flamings sulphurous he went below in fire and thunder.

THE OTHERS Truly, a wonder!

LEPORELLO Truly, a wonder!

DONNA ANNA, DONNA ELVIRA, ZERLINA, DON OCTAVIO and MASETTO I saw the spectre with mien of woe.

DON OCTAVIO Heav'n itself then our cause has righted. Days of peace now dawn before us, Grant, oh, grant then the vows plighted, Now at last may be fulfill'd.

DONNA ANNA I but ask thee, oh, my belov'd one, To delay but one short year ... Lover's pleadings are commandments, On thy faithful love I build.

DONNA ELVIRA To a convent I betake me, There to end my troubled life.

ZERLINA AND MASETTO Now dear, wait no longer till we two are man and wife.

LEPORELLO And I'll seek another master, And begin another life.

ZERLINA, MASETTO AND LEPORELLO And let him in flames atone, Who no mercy e'er has shewn, And now let us all united Sing the verse of old indited, Join in chorus ev'ry one.

DONNA ELVIRA, ZERLINA, DON OCTAVIO, MASETTO and LEPORELLO He who wrought for selfish pleasure, Shall depart without, yes without a friend.

Documents

OPERA-GUIDE_ Don Giovanni e.pdf