description Acis and Galatea Overview
"Acis and Galatea" is a pastoral masque or minor opera composed by George Frideric Handel, with an English text adapted from John Gay and Alexander Pope. Originally composed around 1718 for the Duke of Chandos at his estate in Cannons, the work retells the mythological Ovidian story of the lovers Acis and Galatea and the jealous giant Polyphemus. Handel later expanded and revised the piece for public performances in London. It is recognized as a significant English-language work from the Baroque era, popular among early music performers.
insights Ranking position
Acis and Galatea ranks #27 of 155 in the Oratorio ranking, behind Jephtha, ahead of Theodora.
help Acis and Galatea FAQ
Who wrote the text for Handel's Acis and Galatea?
The English text for "Acis and Galatea" was adapted from John Gay and Alexander Pope. George Frideric Handel originally composed the music for this pastoral masque around 1718 for the Duke of Chandos.
What myth is Acis and Galatea based on?
The work retells the mythological Ovidian story of the mortal shepherd Acis, the sea nymph Galatea, and the jealous cyclops Polyphemus. This tragic myth provided the perfect foundation for Handel's expressive pastoral compositions.
Where was Acis and Galatea first performed?
The original 1718 version was composed for performance at Cannons, the lavish estate of the Duke of Chandos. It was later expanded and adapted for public performance in London, becoming one of Handel's most popular works.
What famous song is featured in Acis and Galatea?
One of the most famous arias from the work is "O ruddier than the cherry," which is sung by the cyclops Polyphemus. This bass aria remains a popular piece in classical vocal repertoires today.
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