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At first blush opera is a curious, even absurd, art form, one in which characters communicate even urgent messages through song. Yet it has endured over the past four centuries as one of the most beloved forms of cultural entertainment around. In this class we take a series of canonical operatic works and ask: what did these operas mean to their audiences at the time of their premiere, and what has sustained our interest in them since? This class will combine focused viewing of opera with lively discussion. All students are welcome; no background in opera is necessary. Please note that courses without sufficient enrollment may be subject to cancellation.