From the intricate plot of the original Ariosto, the Orlando furioso follows the thread of the story of the paladin, madly in love with Angelica, and Ruggiero, victim of the sorceress Alcina. It is the enchanted island of Alcina that acts as a backdrop to an intertwining that mixes magical, heroic, comic and amorous elements, perfectly accompanied by Vivaldi’s writing with an evocative variety of musical styles. Orlando chases his beloved Angelica, who in turn mourns the death of his beloved Medoro, brought back to life by the magical powers of Alcina. The sorceress, enamored of Ruggiero, bewitches him with her arts; Bradamante frees the beloved from the spell, but abandons him indignantly for the betrayal. Imprisoned by Angelica in a magical cave, Orlando discovers that his beloved has married Medoro and loses his mind. While Ruggiero and Astolfo plan to avenge Orlando, the latter appears in front of them, naked and in the grip of madness. In his ramblings he defeats the guardian of the temple and, breaking the spell, destroys the kingdom of Alcina. Thanks to Astolfo, Orlando recovers reason and forgives Angelica and Medoro, blessing their union.