Sung in the first act of Bellini’s famous opera, Norma, the high priestess Norma is visited by a group of angry Druids. They beseech her to declare war on Rome, whose soldiers occupy the Druids’ land and oppress their citizens.
Norma assuages their fury and convinces them that now is not the time to fight. If patient, the Romans will fall by their own doing; an intervention is not necessary.
Norma sings a prayer to the moon goddess, asking for peace.
What is not known by the other Druids is that Norma has fallen in love with a Roman. She secretly hopes no war will be fought so that her lover will be safe.
Notable Normas
Casta Diva Italian Lyrics
Casta Diva, che inargentiqueste sacre antiche piante,
a noi volgi il bel sembiante
senza nube e senza vel...
Tempra, o Diva,
tempra tu de’ cori ardenti
tempra ancora lo zelo audace,
spargi in terra quella pace
che regnar tu fai nel ciel…
Casta Diva English Translation
Pure Goddess, whose silver coversThese sacred ancient plants,
we turn to your lovely face
unclouded and without veil...
Temper, oh Goddess,
the hardening of your ardent spirits
temper your bold zeal,
Scatter peace across the earth
Thou make reign in the sky...
Casta Diva Lyrics and Text Translation - Norma's Aria "Casta Diva" Lyrics from Bellini's Norma:
Source: http://classicalmusic.about.com/od/classicalmusictips/qt/Casta-Diva-Lyrics-And-Text-Translation.htm
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