Which opera opens with the servant's complaint about being a servant?

Which opera opens with the servant's complaint about being a servant?

• A. Don Giovanni
• B. The Magic Flute
• C. The Marriage of Figaro
• D. Così fan tutte

Answer: (A)

Openings in opera often establish who holds power and how relationships work by giving a voice to someone on the social bottom. In Don Giovanni, the score immediately introduces Leporello, the master’s servant, with a plaintive take on being stuck in service. That moment puts the master–servant dynamic front and center and signals the blend of comedy and danger that runs through the opera. The other operas begin with different concerns: The Magic Flute starts from the hero’s peril and rescue, The Marriage of Figaro opens with Figaro and Susanna plotting their wedding, and Così fan tutte begins with two men debating fidelity. So the opening that centers a servant’s complaint is distinctive to Don Giovanni, making it the best fit.

Openings in opera often establish who holds power and how relationships work by giving a voice to someone on the social bottom. In Don Giovanni, the score immediately introduces Leporello, the master’s servant, with a plaintive take on being stuck in service. That moment puts the master–servant dynamic front and center and signals the blend of comedy and danger that runs through the opera. The other operas begin with different concerns: The Magic Flute starts from the hero’s peril and rescue, The Marriage of Figaro opens with Figaro and Susanna plotting their wedding, and Così fan tutte begins with two men debating fidelity. So the opening that centers a servant’s complaint is distinctive to Don Giovanni, making it the best fit.