This volume explores the history and social context of opera from its beginnings to the present day, and deals with the staging, opera singers, and opera as a social event. As well as providing a historical narrative, the contributors discuss the complex development of opera and its relationship with other arts and culture generally. The many illustrations underline the richly visual nature of opera and the vivid extravagances of its staging and costume; they also provide a parallel visual history, supplementing and enriching the verbal narrative.