In Act 2, Rostam is grown into a mighty warrior, and is sent by the Shah to the front to battle the Turks, whose army appears invincible.
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Click here to hear an MP3 file with an excerpt from the Soldier’s Chorus: (1.17mb, 1m 17s)
Soldiers: Persia! Our homes are sacred! Must we give our sons to say That while our country slumbered The Turkish army on this day, Our country's ancient banner In a foul and loathsome manner, From us did wrest away? Our army is out-numbered. Can we hope to stay this night, This night of fear and dread? Tomorrow’s most historic fight Against the Turk, whose steel we know, Will cause red Persian blood to flow. Tomorrow’s foul and loathsome sight: The bravest of our Persians, dead! Persia! |
A battle scene follows, in which Rostam and his army defeat the Turks.
100 years pass, and Rostam is enjoying a peaceful day hunting. While he is offstage in pursuit of game, several thieves creep up and steal his horse.
Rostam follows the trail to a nearby castle, where he meets the owner’s daughter, Tahmina. At her earnest pleading, he agrees to marry.
100 years pass, and Rostam is enjoying a peaceful day hunting. While he is offstage in pursuit of game, several thieves creep up and steal his horse.
Rostam follows the trail to a nearby castle, where he meets the owner’s daughter, Tahmina. At her earnest pleading, he agrees to marry.
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Click here to hear an MP3 file with an excerpt from Rostam’s aria following the wedding. (3.2mb, 3m 30s)
Rostam: 'Tis plain, that of the roads we tread, No loftier height will we descry. To Heaven’s gates our way has lead, And eagle’s haunt, and swallow’s sky! All things below, all men below In vain will seek this lofty peak, And lonely men in folly speak, More so than ever king will know! Tahmina: Perhaps your love will grant me a son, like his father in strength and renown Rostam: The fates still hold that plan in secret. Tahmina: Or perhaps a daughter. Have you a wish? Rostam: If a daughter should bless this bed, Give her this to bind her head (gives Tahmina an armband). A talisman, it will guard her fate. If son it be,Then place it ‘round his mighty arm and tell of me And my adventures, and relate the whole progression of my tale Say that Rostam, mighty Rostam, demon-slayer, came with pale And mortal passion to the charms of fair Tahmina; bid you then, When years are done, command some men Of noble station teach him virtue, books and pen, Teach him justice, wrong, and right. Do not fail! Take every care! And teach him to contain his might, Secure his comfort, guard his ways, his great ambition just begun. 'Till our nation sings his praise; illuminate my noble son! |