Norma & Pollione
The betrayed druid priestess
The druid priestess Norma broke her vows for the Roman proconsul Pollione and secretly bore two children; when he abandons her for another priestess, Norma offers herself to the pyre, and he, repentant, dies with her.
01Why it matters
Bellini's opera contains "Casta diva," one of the most difficult and celebrated arias in bel canto.
02The conflict
Norma's sacred vows and Pollione's betrayal.
03The iconic moment
The aria "Casta diva" beneath the druid moon.
04What survived
The opera "Norma"; the aria "Casta diva."
05Frequently asked questions
Who were Norma & Pollione?
The druid priestess Norma broke her vows for the Roman proconsul Pollione and secretly bore two children; when he abandons her for another priestess, Norma offers herself to the pyre, and he, repentant, dies with her.
Why is the story of Norma & Pollione famous?
Bellini's opera contains "Casta diva," one of the most difficult and celebrated arias in bel canto.
How does the story of Norma & Pollione end?
The aria "Casta diva" beneath the druid moon. The opera "Norma"; the aria "Casta diva."
Is the story of Norma & Pollione real?
Norma & Pollione is a work of fiction.
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