Cadmus et Hermione

Prologue
Allegory in praise of the King as Sol invictus. Interrupting the peaceful plays of rustic deities, nymphs and shepherds, Envy rouses the monstrous serpent Python, which is soon struck down by the Sun’s light. Bathed in its protective brightness, the plays resume more cheerfully.

Act I
Egyptian prince Cadmus in search of his sister Europa has stopped in Greece where he has fallen under the spell of Mars’s daughter Hermione. She is courted by the local king, a ludicrous giant under the god’s protection. To win her, Cadmus must overcome the obstacles set up by Mars around the princess, who is also defended by Juno. Cadmus is joined by Pallas.

Act II
While his companion Arbas is busy with the ladies of Hermione’s retinue – he turns down the Nourrice’s advances and woos Charite – Cadmus bids farewell to his beloved. Cupid endeavors to entertain the princess and promises her to protect the one she loves.

Act III
This is time for the first test: Cadmus is to defeat Mars’s dragon that terrifies his comrades by devouring two unfortunate Africans. Arbas feigns to fight it but it is eventually slain by Cadmus. Mars’s priests sacrifice to him yet he rejects their offerings and demands more deeds.

Act IV
Cadmus gathered the dragon’s teeth: he sows them and from each tooth a fierce warrior arises. Cupid throws a grenade among them so that they kill each other. The few survivors side with Cadmus. The Giant and his army launch an attack on the prince but Pallas petrifies them with his shield bearing Medusa’s head. Cadmus meets his princess again but Hermione is abducted by order of Juno.

Act V
Cadmus despairs and Pallas reassures him: the gods, under the aegis of Jupiter, give Hermione back to him and bless their love. The nuptials of Cadmus and Hermione are celebrated with a magnificent feast filled with songs by Arbas, Charite and the Nourrice.