Atys (Piccinni)

Synopsis (original 1780 version)

Atys is secretly in love with the nymph Sangaride, who is betrothed to his friend King Célénus. Atys confides his secret to his close friend Idas, while Sangaride reveals her own hidden love for Atys to Doris, Idas's sister. When the goddess Cybèle arrives, the Phrygians celebrate her presence. Atys and Sangaride initially conceal their feelings but eventually confess their love. The act ends with Cybèle announcing that Atys, rather than Célénus, will become Sangaride's great Sacrificer.

Cybèle confesses to her confidante Mélisse that she too loves Atys. Meanwhile, Célénus questions Atys about Sangaride's true feelings; Atys assures him she will be a good wife. After Célénus leaves, Atys reflects on his conflicting loyalties and falls asleep. In a dream, Morphée, the God of Sleep, reveals that Cybèle is in love with Atys and warns him to give up Sangaride or face disaster. Atys awakens to find Cybèle watching him. Sangaride asks Cybèle to free her from her engagement, but Atys prevents her from revealing their love. Cybèle agrees to break the engagement but senses the truth is being hidden.

Distressed by Atys's behavior, Sangaride believes he loves Cybèle and decides to renew her engagement to Célénus. Atys and Sangaride quarrel but eventually reconcile. Cybèle, having witnessed their argument, becomes jealous and plots revenge with Célénus. She casts a spell driving Atys insane; under it, he murders Sangaride, mistaking her for a monster. After Célénus announces the murder, Cybèle restores Atys's sanity. Learning he killed Sangaride, Atys despairs and commits suicide.