42 Pietro Metastasio (Italian Poet, Librettist) Interesting Facts

Pietro, in his formative years, exhibited a precocious talent that transcended conventional childhood pursuits. Rather than indulging in typical juvenile pastimes, he captivated audiences with the spontaneous creation of poems, each intricately woven around a specific theme. This extraordinary ability, a beacon of his nascent brilliance, did not go unnoticed. In the annals of 1709, two eminent figures, each a luminary in their own right, paused to witness the unfolding spectacle.

Pietro Metastasio (Italian Poet, Librettist) Interesting Facts

Pietro Metastasio’s nascent years were steeped in the rich ambiance of Rome’s cultural tapestry. Amidst the historic echoes of the city, he blossomed as the younger progeny in a family constellation, adorned with two sons and two daughters. The dynamic interplay between the familial threads of the Trapassi lineage and the Galasti legacy laid the foundation for Metastasio’s artistic destiny. The very air he breathed seemed infused with the essence of creativity, a prelude to the operatic opuses that would later flow from his pen like a lyrical cascade.

1. Early Life and Family Background

In the enchanting city of Rome, the birthplace of countless artistic luminaries, Pietro Metastasio emerged as a literary virtuoso. His familial roots traced back to Felice Trapassi, a valiant member of the Corsican battalion in the papal troops. Felice’s journey of love intertwined with Francesca Galasti, a graceful Bolognese lady whose charm mirrored the allure of her city’s arched porticos. The bustling Via dei Cappellari witnessed the blossoming of their union, as Felice pivoted his endeavors towards the humble trade of a grocer. In this vibrant milieu, Pietro, the scion of this union, drew his first breath, destined to weave the intricate tapestry of his poetic legacy.

2. Gravina’s Discerning Gaze and Swift Patronage

Among the spectators was Giovanni Vincenzo Gravina, a polymath recognized for his legal and literary acumen. Gravina, the steward of the esteemed Arcadian Academy, possessed an astute discernment that extended beyond his professional realms. The lyrical prowess and charismatic aura exuded by young Pietro seized Gravina’s attention, forging an instantaneous connection. Such was the profundity of this connection that, within a mere few weeks, Gravina decided to elevate Pietro to the status of his protégé. The relationship transcended mentorship, culminating in an extraordinary act of adoption, as Gravina embraced Pietro as his own.

3. Lorenzini’s Critical Acclaim and Artistic Fostering

Lorenzini, a distinguished critic of his time, stood alongside Gravina in recognizing the exceptional potential dwelling within Pietro. His acclaim was not mere applause but a nod from one artist to another, acknowledging the burgeoning genius before him. With Gravina as the patron, Lorenzini contributed to Pietro’s artistic nurturing, fostering an environment where creativity could flourish. The confluence of legal acumen and literary insight merged with the nurturing guidance of two influential figures, laid the foundation for Pietro’s ascent.

4. A Change of Destiny

In a twist of fate, Gravina orchestrated a profound alteration in the life of a young boy, transforming his identity from the mundane Trapassi to the more illustrious Metastasio. This rechristening was not a mere whim but a strategic move, with Gravina harboring aspirations of grooming his adoptive son into a successor who would walk the path of jurisprudence. In pursuit of this ambitious plan, the unsuspecting child was subjected to an intense regimen of Latin and legal studies, a formidable task that would shape the course of his destiny.

5. Naples Unveils Literary Horizons

Gravina’s business ventures in the picturesque region of Calabria unfolded an unexpected chapter in Metastasio’s life. Seizing the opportunity, Gravina introduced the young prodigy into the intellectual circles of Naples, a city pulsating with literary fervor. It was here, amidst the vibrant discussions and cultural exchanges, that Metastasio’s nascent talents began to unfurl. However, the next turn in his journey saw him entrusted to the care of Gravina’s cousin, the erudite Gregorio Caroprese, in the tranquil confines of Scaléa.

6. A Generous Act of Philanthropy

In a remarkable display of benevolence, he chose to part with his entire fortune, a staggering sum of 130,000 florins, bestowing it upon none other than the six offspring of Nicolo Martinez. This act of unprecedented generosity not only underscored the depth of his compassion but also left an indelible mark on the lives of those fortunate recipients. The grandeur of his magnanimity echoed through the corridors of philanthropic history, a testament to the profound impact that one individual’s selflessness can have on the collective human experience.

7. The Birth and Roots of Metastasio in Rome

Rome, the eternal city, witnessed the auspicious arrival of Metastasio into the world. His origins were intertwined with the military heritage of his father, Felice Trapassi, an Assisi native who had dutifully served in the esteemed Corsican battalion of the papal troops. The familial connection to the armed forces added a layer of complexity to Metastasio’s narrative, as he navigated the tapestry of his identity against the backdrop of the dynamic historical and social landscape of Rome.

8. Metastasio’s Overture to Literary Mastery

Embarking on a literary journey that would carve his name into the annals of artistic accomplishment, Metastasio, even in his formative years, exhibited an extraordinary commitment to his craft. At the tender age of twelve, he yielded to his client’s entreaties and undertook the formidable task of translating the Iliad into the intricate form of octave stanzas. This early venture not only showcased his linguistic prowess but also hinted at the precocious genius that would define his later contributions to the world of letters.

9. A Prodigy Unleashed: Metastasio’s Senecan Tragedy

The echoes of literary brilliance continued to reverberate as Metastasio, a mere fourteen years old, delved into the realm of Senecan tragedy. Drawing inspiration from Gian Giorgio Trissino’s Italia liberata, a work favored by Gravina, his client, Metastasio wove a dramatic tapestry around a theme from this epic. The resultant creation stood as a testament to his eclectic influences and his ability to seamlessly meld disparate elements into a cohesive and compelling narrative. The Senecan tragedy not only showcased Metastasio’s versatility but also foreshadowed the depth and breadth of his future contributions to the world of dramatic arts.

10. A Poetic Odyssey Amidst Fierce Rivals

Embraced by Scaléa’s intellectual milieu, Metastasio found himself thrust into the competitive arena of Italy’s most renowned improvisatori. The echoes of his verses resonated alongside the literary giants of his time, marking the inception of a poetic odyssey. Yet, the pursuit of artistic excellence exacted a toll on Metastasio’s well-being. The long hours immersed in scholarly pursuits, coupled with evenings dedicated to the composition of poetic masterpieces, bore witness to the silent sacrifice of his health. The relentless commitment to his craft became both a testament to his dedication and a silent struggle against the formidable forces of creative expression.

11. Trapassi’s Joyful Commitment to Education

In the wake of Gravina’s and Lorenzini’s patronage, Felice Trapassi emerged as a beacon of support for Pietro’s burgeoning talents. Overwhelmed with delight at the prospect of providing his offspring with a robust education and a social debut befitting his newfound status, Trapassi assumed the responsibility with unwavering commitment. Pietro’s educational journey became a tapestry woven with the threads of classical knowledge and societal integration, guided by a fatherly figure whose joy stemmed not just from familial ties but from witnessing the blooming brilliance of a prodigious mind.

12. Metastasio’s Transcendent Literary Odyssey

As the pages of time turned, Metastasio’s literary odyssey unfolded over four decades in the cultural epicenter of Vienna. His popularity, initially kindled by the embers of prodigious talent, transformed into a blazing inferno that consumed the boundaries of his uniqueness and creative skills. Within the sanctum of his library resided the tangible fruits of his labor — a staggering forty editions of his works. These literary treasures transcended linguistic confines, finding resonance in the cadence of French, English, German, Spanish, and even contemporary Greek. Metastasio’s imprint, indelibly etched across diverse cultures and languages, attested to the universal appeal of his poetic mastery.

13. The Operatic Luminary

As Metastasio matured, his poetic prowess burgeoned, casting an ever-expanding shadow upon the realms of Italian literature. Renowned as the unrivaled maestro of opera seria libretti, his quill danced upon the delicate lines between tragedy and triumph. Each composition, a sonnet of the soul, resonated with the emotive grandeur that defined the operatic stage. Metastasio’s libretti were not mere scripts; they were lyrical landscapes, sculpted with meticulous attention to detail, offering a stage for the operatic luminaries of his era to illuminate.

14. Rome’s Muse

Rome, a city eternally entwined with Metastasio’s narrative, served as both cradle and muse. The streets that bore witness to his birth also echoed with the footfalls of inspiration. From the shadowed alleys of the Via dei Cappellari to the grandeur of the papal corridors, every cobblestone seemed to reverberate with the pulse of Metastasio’s artistic heartbeat. Rome, the venerable matron of antiquity, bequeathed her timeless spirit to the poetic progeny who, in turn, would immortalize her essence in verses that transcended temporal confines.

15. Revitalization through Nature’s Bounty

In the idyllic embrace of the serene southern beach, Metastasio experienced a profound renewal of his health. The invigorating sea breeze, laden with the pure essence of rural vitality, breathed life into his being. The therapeutic effect of the untainted coastal air played a pivotal role in rejuvenating his physical well-being. Nature, in its pristine form, became the healer, and the tranquil surroundings emerged as a sanctuary for the restoration of Metastasio’s health.

16. Gravina’s Artistic Resolution

In a pivotal moment of artistic self-reflection, Gravina, the consummate creator, made a resolute decision that reverberated through the corridors of his creative soul. No longer would he indulge in the spontaneity of improvisation; a deliberate choice was made to reserve such artistic prowess for loftier pursuits. The solemn commitment he undertook dictated that improvisation, once a spontaneous outpouring of creativity, would now be harnessed for nobler endeavors. This newfound discipline positioned Gravina to enter the competitive realm of literary giants, pitting his refined creations against the masterpieces of the most esteemed poets, marking a profound shift in his artistic trajectory.

17. The Veiled Matrimony of Metastasio

The bond between Metastasio and his confidante deepened to such an extent that whispers of a clandestine union circulated among those who observed their intimate connection. The tendrils of their relationship wove a tapestry of profound emotional attachment that transcended mere friendship. Speculations arose, and assumptions took root, leading to the widespread belief that the two had, in secret, exchanged vows of matrimonial commitment. The clandestine nature of their supposed union added an air of mystery to their connection, leaving society to ponder the depths of their shared intimacy, as the shadows of speculation danced around the true nature of Metastasio’s relationship with this enigmatic figure.

18. Legacy Woven in Verse

Pietro Metastasio’s legacy, a fabric woven with the threads of linguistic virtuosity and operatic brilliance, endures as a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression. Born from the confluence of diverse familial backgrounds and nurtured in the cradle of Rome’s artistic embrace, Metastasio’s journey from grocer’s son to operatic luminary stands as a poetic odyssey. His libretti, like musical notes suspended in the air, continue to enchant audiences, casting a spell that transcends the boundaries of time and resonates with the eternal symphony of human emotion.

19. Metastasio’s Social Struggles in Vienna

In the vibrant cultural milieu of Vienna, Metastasio, the renowned Italian poet and librettist, found himself facing a dearth of social success. The opulent salons and aristocratic circles of the city, pulsating with intellectual discourse and artistic fervor, appeared to be elusive realms for the artist. Despite his literary prowess, the intricacies of Viennese society remained elusive to him, creating a palpable sense of disconnect in his quest for social eminence.

20. The Barrier of Plebeian Origins

Metastasio’s humble beginnings, rooted in plebeian origins, acted as a formidable barrier that kept him at bay from the echelons of aristocratic society. Vienna, with its stratified social structure, seemed to cast a discernible shadow on the poet, limiting his access to the exclusive circles where pedigree often held sway. The societal hierarchy, defined by birth and lineage, stood as an impediment to the assimilation of Metastasio into the refined and glamorous world that unfolded within the city’s glittering social tapestry.

21. Seeking Solace in Closeness: The Countess Althann

Amidst the social hurdles, Metastasio discovered a refuge in the intimate companionship of the Countess Althann. She emerged as a beacon of solace, a sanctuary where he could find respite from the challenges posed by his relative failure to penetrate aristocratic circles. The Countess, sister-in-law to his previous patroness, Princess Belmonte Pignatelli, extended her camaraderie to the beleaguered poet, providing him with a semblance of connection and warmth amidst the otherwise chilly reception he faced in Vienna’s social strata.

22. Felice’s Union with Francesca Galasti and the Grocer Life on Via dei Cappellari

In the serenade of matrimony, Felice found himself entwined with the captivating Francesca Galasti, a woman hailing from the enchanting city of Bologna. This union, a dance of hearts, saw Felice not only embrace the vows of marriage but also embark on a journey into the bustling world of commerce. Nestled within the historic tapestry of daily life, he assumed the role of a grocer, setting up shop on the charming Via dei Cappellari. The cobbled streets bore witness to Felice’s dual existence, where the echoes of matrimony harmonized with the rhythmic exchanges of goods and currency.

23. An Ode to Fortune: Felice’s Elegy to His Patron at Arcadian Academy

Amidst the vivacious whirlpool of his life, Felice’s artistic spirit found expression in an elegy dedicated to his esteemed patron. The canvas for this lyrical masterpiece unfolded within the hallowed halls of an Arcadian Academy assembly. In a moment of cultural convergence, Felice, the grocer-cum-bard, cast aside the mundane concerns of commerce to illuminate the gathering with poetic brilliance. The verses, like tendrils of eloquence, painted a vivid portrait of gratitude and artistic homage. The arc of Felice’s existence, from grocer to poet, was vividly etched in the annals of this assembly, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural mosaic.

24. Viennese Reverie: Metastasio’s Migration to the “Michaelerhaus”

As the sun kissed the early summer skies of 1730, the currents of destiny guided Metastasio toward the majestic city of Vienna. The Italian wordsmith, with a quill as his compass, found solace in an abode nestled within the famed “Michaelerhaus.” This Viennese chapter tinged with the hues of imperial grandeur, became the stage upon which Metastasio’s literary pursuits and cultural odyssey unfolded. The intricacies of his new residence mirrored the complex tapestry of his artistic endeavors, weaving a narrative that transcended borders and embraced the rich amalgamation of Viennese allure and Italian sophistication. The Michaelerhaus, a crucible of creativity, witnessed the birth of verses that would resonate through the corridors of time.

25. Enforcing Academic Rigor

In a decisive turn of parental authority, he compelled the young progeny to immerse themselves in the intricacies of Latin and the rigorous discipline of law. The insistent imposition of these intellectual pursuits reflected a fervent belief in the virtues of classical education, a conviction that echoed through the chambers of their familial abode. This stringent directive, though seemingly austere, aimed not only at cultivating a profound understanding of linguistic nuances but also at instilling an unwavering commitment to the study of jurisprudence.

26. Literary Flourish Amidst Academic Rigidity

Concurrently, amidst the austere ambiance of legal studies, he nurtured his literary aptitude, manifesting a paradoxical duality in his pedagogical approach. The domestic sphere became a crucible for the cultivation of the budding genius, where the alchemy of literature and legal discourse coalesced. Within the enclaves of Roman coteries, the burgeoning intellect unfurled its wings, showcasing literary prowess that harmonized with the rigid structure of legal scholarship. This juxtaposition of seemingly disparate realms underscored the multifaceted nature of the educational milieu.

27. Discovery of Prodigy: A Lyrical Maestro

In the labyrinthine world of artistic patronage, an intriguing encounter unfolded when Gravina, a discerning connoisseur of talent, found himself captivated by the mesmerizing lyrical prowess and irresistible charm exuded by a young boy. This was no fleeting admiration; Gravina, moved by an unspoken connection, swiftly elevated the boy named Pietro to the status of his protégé. Such a profound bond was forged in the crucible of artistic appreciation, a connection not merely of teacher and student, but one that resonated on a deeper, almost spiritual level. Remarkably, this adoption transpired with astonishing alacrity, a testament to the magnetic allure the boy possessed.

28. Educational Enlightenment: Felice Trapassi’s Vision

In the radiant tapestry of Felice Trapassi’s paternal aspirations, a singular thread gleamed brightly — a fervent commitment to endow his cherished offspring with the invaluable gifts of erudition and social refinement. Felice, a beacon of parental devotion, found boundless delight in ensuring that his progeny’s intellectual horizons were expansively illuminated.

The canvas of young Pietro’s life was painted with strokes of educational enlightenment, as Felice, like a sagacious architect, meticulously constructed a foundation that would fortify the boy against the capricious winds of life. This investment in education was not merely an academic pursuit but a symphony of knowledge and societal grace, an orchestration that would resonate throughout Pietro’s life.

29. A Metamorphosis of Identity: Trapassi to Metastasio

In the atelier of identity, where names are bestowed like precious artifacts, an intriguing metamorphosis occurred under Gravina’s discerning gaze. Recognizing a destiny intertwined with the legal realm, Gravina, with a sense of purpose akin to a master craftsman shaping raw material, decided to rename his newfound protégé. The appellation Trapassi, a moniker perhaps more attuned to earthly roots, was shed like a cocoon, making way for the emergence of a butterfly — Metastasio.

This symbolic act, beyond the mere alteration of nomenclature, was an anointing of destiny. Gravina, the orchestrator of this naming ceremony, envisioned a trajectory where the adopted son would not merely tread in his footsteps but ascend to the hallowed halls of the judiciary. The renaming was a ritual of passage, a transformative act that echoed with the resonance of a fateful decree, setting young Metastasio on a course scripted by destiny’s quill.

30. Pietro’s Position in the Sibling Constellation

In the familial tapestry, Pietro, a significant node, occupied the status of the younger progeny among the couple’s progeny, comprising two sons and two daughters. The delicate balance of familial dynamics was thus anchored by Pietro’s presence, his position in the sibling constellation shaping the contours of intra-familial relationships. As the younger scion, Pietro bore witness to the unfolding narrative of familial life, poised at the intersection of filial camaraderie and the unique challenges that accompanied his birth order. The intricate interplay of sibling dynamics within the familial framework formed a nuanced backdrop to Pietro’s formative years.

31. Literary Introduction in Naples by Gravina

The narrative of Metastasio’s social trajectory took an intriguing turn when Gravina, ensconced in Calabria on business, took it upon himself to introduce the poet to the literary circles of Naples. This marked a pivotal moment as Gravina, with a sagacious understanding of Metastasio’s talents, became the catalyst for the poet’s foray into a new social milieu. The literary circles of Naples, infused with intellectual vibrancy, offered a fresh canvas for Metastasio’s aspirations.

32. Entrusted to Cousin Caroprese in Scaléa

In a further twist of fate, Gravina entrusted Metastasio to the guardianship of his cousin, Gregorio Caroprese, in the picturesque locale of Scaléa. This marked not only a geographical transition but also a significant shift in the poet’s social dynamics. The mentorship under Caroprese presented Metastasio with new opportunities and challenges, carving a path that would shape his artistic journey in ways unforeseen. The landscapes of Scaléa, both literal and metaphorical, became the backdrop against which Metastasio’s societal narrative continued to unfold.

33. The Tragic Loss and Imperial Favor

In a heart-wrenching twist of fate, he found himself grappling with the profound grief of losing his beloved spouse. The weight of sorrow bore down on him, casting shadows over the tapestry of his existence. Amidst the tendrils of mourning, a remarkable chapter unfolded in his life, as he ascended to the zenith of imperial favor. Within the hallowed halls of power, he became the Emperor’s top favorite, a position that bestowed both privilege and peril upon his shoulders. The capricious dance of fortune led him through the realms of love and loyalty, leaving indelible imprints on the annals of his destiny.

34. Giustino’s Literary Odyssey

In the annals of literary history, the year 1713 witnessed the emergence of Giustino, a creation that marked the genesis of a profound literary odyssey. Authored by a master of words, its ink spilled onto parchment, etching tales of passion, intrigue, and the human condition. Metastasio, the virtuoso behind this magnum opus, would, however, reveal a fascinating facet of his artistic journey forty-two years hence. In a peculiar turn of events, he confided to his publisher a willingness to conceal the juvenilia of Giustino, a testament to the evolution and maturation of his craft over the passing decades.

35. The Succession of Mortality

In the relentless march of time, the stage of mortality witnessed a succession of noteworthy individuals, their lives intertwined in the intricate dance of existence. Caroprese, a figure of consequence, drew his final breath in the year 1714, leaving behind a void that beckoned for succession. In this unfolding drama, Gravina emerged as the chosen successor, inheriting the mantle left vacant by Caroprese’s departure. However, the ephemerality of life cast its somber shadow once more, as Gravina, too, succumbed to the inexorable grasp of mortality in the year 1718. The vicissitudes of life played out against the backdrop of fleeting moments, etched a poignant narrative of succession and transience in the grand tapestry of time.

36. Metastasio’s Fortuitous Windfall

In the annals of financial serendipity, Antonio Domenico Trapassi, widely renowned as Metastasio, found himself the recipient of a rather substantial windfall – a princely sum of 15,000 scudi, bestowed upon him by the benevolent hands of his father. This pecuniary largesse, a testament to familial generosity, not only delineates a moment in the life of the illustrious poet but also hints at the backdrop of economic affluence that may have provided a fertile ground for the cultivation of his literary genius.

37. Pietro’s Juvenile Artistry Unveiled

Delving into the formative years of Pietro, anecdotes abound of a prodigious talent that transcended the conventional boundaries of childhood expression. Reportedly, the young Pietro, in a display of precocious eloquence, captivated audiences with the spontaneous composition and recitation of poems, each tailored to a specific subject. This preciosity not only served as a harbinger of the artistic virtuosity that would later define his illustrious career but also afforded a glimpse into the profound connection between innate talent and early, unbridled creativity.

38. A Pivotal Confluence of Minds in 1709

In the annals of 18th-century intellectual tapestry, the year 1709 emerges as a crucial juncture where the destinies of two eminent personalities intersected in a moment of profound significance. Among the attentive witnesses was Giovanni Vincenzo Gravina, a luminary recognized for his legal sagacity, literary prowess, and stewardship of the Arcadian Academy. Alongside him stood Lorenzini, a critic of discerning acclaim. Their shared pause, an interlude in the grand symphony of life, encapsulates the convergence of legal, literary, and critical spheres, perhaps sowing the seeds for intellectual discourse that would resonate through the corridors of time.

39. Metastasio’s Early Accomplishments

In a precocious display of literary prowess, Metastasio, at the tender age of twelve, acquiesced to the demands of his patron by embarking on a formidable task – the translation of the Iliad into octave stanzas. Two years hence, he unveiled a Senecan tragedy titled Giustino, a creation inspired by Gian Giorgio Trissino’s Italia liberata, an epic fervently favored by Gravina, his esteemed patron. This magnum opus made its debut in 1713, and, interestingly, forty-two years later, Metastasio, in a tone tinged with humility, expressed his willingness to shroud this early work, deeming it juvenilia.

40. Metastasio’s Social Confinement

The demise of Countess Althann in 1755 marked a significant shift in Metastasio’s social orbit. Once a luminary in vibrant social circles, he found solace and companionship in more intimate gatherings. These subdued rendezvous unfolded within the walls of the bourgeois abode belonging to his confidant, Nicolo Martinez, the erudite secretary to the papal Nuncio in Vienna. The ebullient soirées of yore were supplanted by a quieter, more contemplative camaraderie.

41. The Quietus of a Literary Luminary

On the fateful day of April 12th, Metastasio departed from the mortal realm, leaving behind a legacy woven with the threads of creativity and intellect. His earthly possessions, totaling an impressive 130,000 florins, were bequeathed not to kin or countrymen but to the progeny of his faithful friend Nicolo Martinez. In a poignant denouement, it was revealed that Metastasio had, through the inexorable passage of time, outlived his entire Italian lineage, casting a shadow of solitude over his final days. Business – Money Making – Marketing – Ecommerce

42. Epitaph to Pietro Metastasio

In the annals of literary history, Pietro Metastasio stands as a luminary who, from the tender age of twelve, wielded the pen with a dexterity beyond his years. His youthful forays into translation and tragic composition laid the foundation for a prolific career. In the twilight of his social tapestry, the bourgeois sanctuary of Nicolo Martinez became a haven for Metastasio’s conviviality. As the final curtain fell on his life, the dispersion of wealth to Martinez’s progeny unveiled a poignant chapter of love, friendship, and the enduring legacy of a man who, in death, bequeathed not just riches but a testament to the indomitable spirit of creativity.