American Poetry

"The State of Innocence, and Fall of Man" by John Dryden is a compelling opera that reimagines the biblical story of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden. Set to music by composer Henry Purcell, the opera transports audiences to the idyllic paradise of Eden, where Adam and Eve live in harmony with nature under the watchful eye of God. However, temptation soon enters the picture in the form of the serpent, who persuades Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge.
As a result, Adam and Eve's innocence is shattered, and they are cast out of Eden, forced to face the consequences of their actions and the harsh realities of the world outside. Dryden's libretto for "The State of Innocence" is rich in poetic language and theological symbolism, exploring themes of temptation, sin, redemption, and the human condition. Through the operatic medium, Dryden and Purcell bring to life the drama and emotion of the biblical narrative, inviting audiences to reflect on the timeless themes and moral lessons contained within.