Giuseppe Verdi: Pocket Giants

Giuseppe Verdi, celebrated as the Shakespeare of opera, composed iconic works including Rigoletto and Aida. His music, particularly the chorus of Hebrew slaves from Nabucco, resonates deeply with Italian nationalism. Born during Napoleonic rule, Verdi envisioned a unified Italy, and his dreams were realized in 1861 when he became a deputy in the first all-Italian parliament. His career culminated in the comedic opera Falstaff, showcasing his versatility and enduring impact on the operatic landscape.