About the work
Matilde di Shabran is a melodramma giocoso (opera semiseria) in two acts by Gioachino Rossini to a libretto by Jacopo Ferretti, based on François-Benoît Hoffmann's text for Méhul's Euphrosine. It premiered on 24 February 1821 at the Teatro Apollo in Rome, conducted by the violinist Niccolò Paganini.
Plot
The misogynistic knight Corradino, nicknamed "Cuor di Ferro" (Iron Heart), falls unwillingly in love with Matilde di Shabran, who takes refuge at his castle. A jealous rival falsely accuses Matilde of freeing a prisoner, putting her life in danger; only her rescue and forgiveness transform Corradino into a man capable of love.
Cultural significance
The premiere ended in street brawls between Rossini's supporters and detractors. Unusually, the podium was taken by Paganini, bringing together two of the era's great virtuosos; three versions of the work, all authorised by Rossini, survive (Rome 1821, Naples 1821, Vienna 1822).