Karlštejn (opera)

Karlštejn is an opera in three acts by Vítězslav Novák, composed between 1914 and 1916. The libretto, written by Otokar Fischer, is based on the popular 1884 comedy play of the same name by Jaroslav Vrchlický.

The opera is a patriotic and romantic work set in 14th-century Bohemia during the reign of Emperor Charles IV. The story revolves around a decree forbidding women from entering Karlštejn Castle, which served as a summer residence and treasury for the Bohemian Crown Jewels. Despite the ban, two noblewomen, the Empress Eliška and her lady-in-waiting Alena, disguise themselves as men and secretly enter the castle, leading to comical situations and romantic entanglements. Their motivation stems from their devotion to Charles IV and a desire to prove their intelligence and capability.

The music of Karlštejn is characterized by Novák's late-Romantic style, incorporating elements of Czech folk music and featuring lush orchestration. The opera showcases Novák's ability to write memorable melodies and create vivid musical depictions of the historical setting and characters.

The premiere of Karlštejn took place on November 18, 1916, at the National Theatre in Prague. While initially well-received, it is not among Novák's most frequently performed operas, but it remains an important work in the Czech operatic repertoire and is occasionally revived. The opera’s themes of patriotism, love, and gender roles continue to resonate with audiences.