Synopsis:
The story of the immortal epic Florante at Laura begins in a dark, gloomy forest in the outskirts of the kingdom of Albania, near the Kosito River whose water is poisonous.
There, in the midst of abounding perils, stands Florante tied to a big higera tree, despairing of his unfortunate life.
He recalls in wild imagination the beautiful Laura whom he thought was unfaithful to their sacred trust; of his ill-fated father; of his beloved kingdom, which had fallen to his enemy. These thoughts, which he utters in mournful tones, fill the deep forest.
In the same forest, not far from this spot, roams another soul, a Moro. He hears Florante’s plaints. He quickly traces the source. He comes across Florante upon whom two fierce and hungry lions are ready to pounce. He draws up his trusty sword and with lightning speed hacks the wild beasts to death. With the same sword, he cuts loose the strong ropes that bind Florante who, in exhaustion, falls unconscious.
The Moro brings Florante back to life.
Florante tells how he is the son of Duke Briseo and Princess Floresca…
