Opera, Italianità and Transatlantic Exchange : In Search of Italy

The first major transatlantic study of Italian opera between 1870 and 1922, this book investigates the changing operatic relations between Italy and the Americas during the crucial decades from Italian unification until the rise of Fascism. Opera held a key role in Italy's self-image at this time, with Milan at its centre – but New York and Buenos Aires emerged as global operatic capitals and key destinations for Italian emigrants. Through a series of case studies focused on canonical and overlooked operas, the book uncovers the vital role of the United States and Argentina in both defining and challenging links between Italy, Italian opera and an imagined Italianness, including within Italy itself. Modern associations between Italian opera and Italian identity were in crucial respects forged in – and via – the Americas during this period: shaped by changing economic relations, transatlantic emigration and new technological media for operatic production and consumption.