The Bartered Bride

“The Bartered Bride” (original title: “Prodaná nevěsta”) is probably the best-known opera by the Czech national composer Bedřich Smetana (1824-1884). And as one would expect, Smetana also works here with numerous folkloristic melodies, which transport the listener to a Bohemian village already in the roaring overture. There, everything revolves around young Marie, whose heart beats for Hans, a stranger in the village. According to her parents’ wishes, however, she is to marry Wenzel, the son of the wealthy farmer Michas. Finally, the matchmaker Kezal intervenes to suggest another bride to Hans. Hans agrees, with the addition that only one of Micha’s sons may marry Marie. Marie, stunned by this apparent betrayal of Hans, has no choice but to finally agree to marry what she thinks is Wenzel. Hans finally reveals his true identity: he is Micha’s son from his first marriage. The bride and groom lie happily in each other’s arms.