Nel Dì Della Vittoria
Maria Callas
The Ambition and Moral Conflict in 'Nel Dì Della Vittoria'
Maria Callas, renowned for her powerful and emotive soprano voice, brings to life the dramatic aria 'Nel Dì Della Vittoria.' This piece is from Giuseppe Verdi's opera 'Macbeth,' which is based on William Shakespeare's play of the same name. The lyrics capture a pivotal moment where Lady Macbeth reflects on the prophecy that her husband, Macbeth, will become the King of Scotland. The aria is a profound exploration of ambition, moral conflict, and the dark path to power.
The opening lines recount a moment of revelation and surprise as Macbeth learns of his future greatness from the witches' prophecy. Lady Macbeth's words, 'Ambizioso spirto, tu sei Macbetto,' highlight her recognition of Macbeth's ambitious nature. However, she questions whether he has the ruthlessness required to seize the throne. This internal conflict is central to the narrative, as it sets the stage for the moral decay and tragic events that follow.
Lady Macbeth's plea, 'Vieni t'affretta! Accendere ti vo' quel freddo core!' reveals her determination to push Macbeth towards action. She is willing to ignite his 'cold heart' and instill the courage needed to commit regicide. The aria underscores the theme of unchecked ambition and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve power. The prophecy of the witches serves as a catalyst, but it is Lady Macbeth's relentless drive that propels the story forward, leading to their ultimate downfall.
Callas's interpretation of this aria is both haunting and compelling, capturing the essence of Lady Macbeth's complex character. Her performance brings out the emotional intensity and psychological depth of the lyrics, making 'Nel Dì Della Vittoria' a powerful commentary on the corrupting influence of ambition and the moral consequences of pursuing power at any cost.