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
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
J ust 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.
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!
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!
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!
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
J ust, 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.
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)
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!
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
J ust 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.
His guilty course fulfilling,
He rushes on his fall!
ZERLINA
from within
Help, oh, help me, friends, oh haste ye!
Not another moment waste we!
Musician: exeunt
MASETTO
Oh, Zerlina!
ZERLINA
her voice is heard at the other side
Oh, thou traitor!
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! J ust 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.
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...
J ust 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?
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 J uno;
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!
rising
Pray, why?
DONNA ELVIRA
kneeling
With love I've ended
J oy 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!
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,
J oin 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.

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