Mascagni (b. Livorno, 7 Dec 1863; d. Rome, 2 Aug 1945) achieved success early on in his compositional life with one of his most famous operas, Cavalleria Rusticana.
His prolific compositional career seemed to exhaust his inventiveness a little and several of his premieres were widely criticised by the public and critics alike.
Most notably Le maschere which was premiered simultaneously in seven theatres across Italy, the only success being in Rome where Mascagni himself was conducting.
In a bid to regain his previous success Mascagni produced Parisina with the help of the librettist Gabriele D’Annunzio who adapted Byron's 1816 poem of the same title.
He adored the "transparent simplicity" of the "ringing, melodious verses" which "set his mind on fire" and made his "pulses throb."
On his return though he made great progress and finished the opera at the beginning of February 1913 (just 11 months after the libretto was completed).
After mentioning the numerous qualities in the work he wrote: This last statement has subsequently been indefinitely linked with Parisina, which is rarely revived but when it is, the fourth act, which (according to Stivender and others) contains the best music, is generally restored.
The Marquis' son, Ugo, is interrupted by his mother Stella dell’Assassino in the middle of an archery session.
Suddenly Parisina's maid La Verde bursts in to announce the return of Nicolo d’Este from his hunting trip.