Act I. Entrance to Hades. When _Orpheus_ appears, he is greeted with

threats by the _Furies_. The scene, beginning with the chorus, "Who is this mortal?" is still considered a masterpiece of dramatic music. The _Furies_ call upon Cerberus, the triple-headed dog monster that guards the entrance to the Nether World, to tear in pieces the mortal who so daringly approaches. The bark of the monster is reproduced in the score. This effect, however, while interesting, is but a minor incident. What lifts the scene to its thrilling climax is the infuriated "No!" which is hurled at _Orpheus_ by the dwellers at the entrance to Hades, when, having recourse to song, he tells of his love for _Eurydice_ and his grief over her death and begs to be allowed to seek her. He voices his plea in the air, "A thousand griefs, threatening shades." The sweetness of his music wins the sympathy of the _Furies_. They allow him to enter the Valley of the Blest, a beautiful spot where the good spirits in Hades find rest. (Song for _Eurydice_ and her companions, "In this tranquil and lovely abode of the blest.") _Orpheus_ comes seeking _Eurydice_. His recitative, "What pure light!" is answered by a chorus of happy shades, "Sweet singer, you are welcome." To him they bring the lovely _Eurydice_. _Orpheus_, beside himself with joy, but remembering the warning of _Amor_, takes his bride by the hand and, with averted gaze, leads her from the vale.

She cannot understand his action. He seeks to soothe her injured feelings. (Duet: "On my faith relying.") But his efforts are vain; nor can he offer her any explanation, for he has also been forbidden to make known to her the reason for his apparent indifference.