Bertha (opera)

• Bertha, queen of Norway (mezzo-soprano) • Noble • Teacher • Scotchman • Man • Barbarian Chieftain • Counsellor • Third Scotchman • Officer • Second Scotchman • Norwegian Citizen • Common Norwegian • Old Man • Second Norwegian Citizen • Messenger • Girl ==Synopsis==

The setting is the royal residence in Oslo, Norway, in the medieval era. The garrison of the slightly deranged Queen Bertha of Oslo is encased by barbarians. She leads an attack, in a ring of white eagles, and the attackers are repelled. A teacher questions her as to whether her own subjects are barbarians, for which Bertha orders the teacher executed. After the country is at peace, Bertha then declares war on Scotland. The Counselor objects to these endless wars, and Bertha dismisses the council. Two young lovers meet in Bertha's garden, but they are shot dead there, as the queen disapproves of lovers' trysts. As Bertha ages, her madness increases and she keeps wanting new adventures. Bertha gives Norway to the barbarians so that she can reconquer the nation. She does this, but collapses dead on her regained throne. The people praise her as a great queen. ==References==