If you have wondered about the meaning of various operatic arias, duets, or ensembles, here is a compilation of some 100 texts, mostly in French and Italian, with modern English translations, which are not literal (i.e., word for word ) or in “translatorese” (garbled English). Instead, we have attempted to reflect the spirit, meaning, and whenever possible, the rhythmic pattern of the original, in accessible English. The titles are listed in our Index, and each piece includes relevant information, including a brief synopsis for context, composer, librettist, year of the opera’s premier, and the name of the character who performs the work. There are some duets and “scenas” (extended excerpts), a few choruses, and a small number of German and Russian works, some of which are marked “Adaptations.” We hope you will find these English interpretations helpful and enjoyable and that they will add to your understanding of character and plot.