Épicure (opera)

Épicure is a French-language opera in three acts composed by Étienne Méhul. The libretto was written by Charles-Albert Demoustier. It premiered at the Opéra-Comique in Paris on 14 March 1800.

The opera is a comédie mêlée d'ariettes, meaning a comedy interspersed with musical numbers. The plot revolves around the historical Greek philosopher Epicurus (Épicure in French) and his supposed lifestyle. The opera presents a largely fictionalized account of Epicurus, depicting him as a benevolent and generous host presiding over a community dedicated to simple pleasures and philosophical discussion.

The storyline centers on romantic entanglements amongst Epicurus's disciples and the disruption caused by the arrival of figures from the outside world who misunderstand Epicurus's philosophy. The opera's humor derives from the contrast between the perceived austerity of philosophical life and the common human desires for love and happiness.

While not one of Méhul's most enduringly popular works, Épicure offers insights into the contemporary perception of Epicurean philosophy and demonstrates Méhul's skill in combining comic and lyrical elements within the opera-comique genre. The music is characterized by its elegant melodies and effective orchestration.