Not many Verdi operas have had as many problems with censorship as Un ballo in maschera (Masquerade Ball). In the mid-19th century, it was inconceivable for an opera stage to feature the murder of a ruler, a witchcraft scene, or an extramarital love affair. For Verdi, however, it was a challenge he did not want to give up.

 

Boston's Governor Riccardo, unaware of the danger that threatens him, thinks only of his love for Amelia, the wife of his best friend Renato. The disclosure of this emotion arouses jealousy in Renato, which encourages him to join the conspirators. They want revenge on the ruler during the doomsday masked ball.

 

Verdi treated the romantic story as a stylistically perfect and captivating opera. He reflects on ethics in conflict with romantic passion, despair at a merciless fate, and loyalty transcending injustice and crime.