What role does a libretto play in an opera?

A libretto is the text of an opera, serving as the foundation for the musical work. Historically, the term—meaning "little book"—referred to the printed booklets distributed to audiences so they could follow the drama during performances.1

Writing a libretto requires techniques distinct from those used in spoken drama. Because music moves at a slower pace than speech and the orchestra can convey complex emotions, a libretto must be carefully crafted to avoid unnecessary literary artifice. Instead, it often utilizes simple language and repetition to aid audience comprehension.1

The role of the librettist has evolved significantly over time. In early opera, the text was often treated as a poetic drama to which the composer was expected to defer. As the art form developed, the balance shifted, and musical demands frequently took precedence. Librettos have been adapted from existing plays and novels, written as original works, or created through close partnerships between composers and librettists. In some cases, composers have even written their own librettos to ensure the text perfectly aligns with their musical vision.1