The Middle Class Goes to Watch the Fat Lady Sing

"'It is indispensable for a man of fashion to appear at the Opera on Fridays,' advises a guide to the new century."

-James H. Johnson, Listening in Paris

Increased Accessibility of the Opera:

• Revolution brought about state-supported Opera
• First come, first served seating
• Cheaper tickets than before Revolution, though not as cheap as during the revolution

Opera's Social Status

• "Opera had again acquired the aura of wealth and prestige that had enveloped the institution for most of the 18th century." (Johnson 168)
• Opera was a social event: people went to see other people, and to discuss the day's gossip and news
  • "To the majority of spectators at the Opéra ... the chief difference between a chorus and a solo was how loudly they could talk." (Johnson 170)
• Political Opera
  • State approval necessary for public performance
  • Police surveillance of Operas
  • Shouts of approbation for scenes or lines with political double entendre
• Napoleon frequently attended Opera, always fashionable late

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