Tosca

They are two artists in love: Mario Cavaradossi paints pictures for the Roman clergy but sympathizes with the “repubblica romana” and hides an escaped supporter of that republic in his garden. Floria Tosca makes glowing appearances as a singer at celebrations for opponents of the republic. But her love for Mario is the driving force of her life. He falls victim to the brutal cruelty of the state. Its enforcer, Baron Scarpia, may be driven by political zeal. In the case of Tosca and Mario, though, his motive is jealous lechery. To save Mario’s life, Tosca gives in to Scarpia’s extortive deal.