Cast

Conductor Antonio Fogliani
Director Katharina Thoma

Synopsis

The action unfolds in Imperial Rome, during the reign of Tiberius. The general Publio returns victorious from his campaign against the Sarmatians. Everyone assumes that his triumph will culminate in a marriage to Argelia, the daughter of the powerful senator Murena. Yet Murena is tormented by the thought of Settimio—the tribune of the people he betrayed and sent into exile, and whom Argelia once loved. Because of this, she keeps her distance from him and harbors deep resentment.

Meanwhile Settimio, now back in Rome under disguise, approaches Murena’s house to learn news of Argelia. Finding her alone, resigned to an unwanted marriage with Publio, he reveals himself, protesting his innocence and reaffirming his love for her. Discovered by soldiers, Settimio is arrested.

Publio then arrives, revealing a noble heart: if Argelia loves another, he intends to honor her feelings. More than that, he vows to save Settimio—his childhood friend. When Murena hears what has happened, his face turns pale: his treachery is about to come to light.

While the Senate convenes, Settimio is granted a final farewell to Argelia. He declares he has been the victim of a conspiracy, and possesses written proof. Argelia resolves to bring the evidence before the emperor—but then discovers that the architect of the entire plot was her own father, Murena, who has just voted together with the Senate to condemn Settimio to death.

Back home in turmoil, Murena confronts Settimio—on his way back to prison—and a distraught Argelia. He urges them to flee together, but Settimio refuses, unwilling to stain his honor.

Murena’s mind unravels. He wanders through the house in delirium, already envisioning Settimio’s torture. While Publio promises to attempt one last rescue, Murena regains clarity: crushed by guilt, he confesses his crime and declares his intention to end his own life. Argelia tries to dissuade him and destroys the documents that would incriminate him—sacrificing the very evidence that could save Settimio. In despair, she wishes for death.

But fate intervenes. Thrown to a lion in the circus, Settimio is spared: the beast recognizes the man who once healed its wound. The repentant Murena is punished by the emperor only with expulsion from the Senate. Argelia and Settimio are free to marry, and all rejoice at the happy ending—even Publio.