Musical Offerings ⦁ 2025 ⦁ Volume 16 ⦁ Number 1 7 politicians were motivated by family and regional connections, selfinterest, and the hopes of achieving political power.”30 Meanwhile, Robert Walpole, who served as prime minister from 1721– 1742, provided a sense of political stability.31 However, it is said that those who opposed Walpole often expressed their disapproval by means of satire and allegory that was performed at the Haymarket Theatre.32 This fact serves as evidence that politics were indeed incorporated into the entertainment of the day. At this point in history, British politics revolved around the Hanoverian line, Whig and Tory parties, and Prime Minister Walpole. This understanding is pertinent to the debate around the political influence on Handel’s and Porpora’s operas. Figure 1: Hanoverian Family Tree.33 Synopsis of the Musical Material in Handel’s Opera Before delving into the interpretation of these two operas, a summary of the musical content may help provide context for the discussion. 30 McGeary, The Politics of Opera, 8. 31 McGeary, The Politics of Opera, 9. 32 McGeary, The Politics of Opera, 11. 33 Langer, 469.
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