Il poeta e la sua elegia del desiderio inappagato

The essay focuses on Hans Werner Henze’s opera «Elegy for young lovers». Inspiration from motives of Wystan Hugh Auden and Chester Kallman's libretto and their influence on the characterization of the protagonist are investigated. Some textual references to the theme of homosexuality are highlighted, focusing moreover on the theme of repressed eros, through the analysis of Hilda’s opening monolog, the episode of visions, and Carolina’s mad scene.