P. I. Tchaikovsky: Prince Gremin's aria (Sava Vemic with english subtitles)

Since we can not sing it, we can at least speak about the OPERA in these isolation days. Through Stanislavsky’s 5 question (WHO, WHERE, WHEN, WHY and HOW) I will try to explain this aria.

Opera: Eugene Onegin by P. I. Tchaikovsky, Act III, scene 1

1. WHO is the character?
Prince Gremin, a rich nobleman, in his 40s or 50s who has been wounded in the war in the past.

2. WHERE is the scene happening?
In St. Petersburg, in the luxurious ballroom in the home of Prince Gremin. Glittering reception of the guests.

3. WHEN is the time of action?
Evening, time for ball. After having spent 5 years in aimless traveling outside of Russia Eugene Onegin has just seen Tatiana again, now elegant and gracious lady of society and asks his host Prince Gremin about her.

4. WHY is Gremin telling all this to Onegin?
Firstly, while Onegin has asked him. Secondly, Gremin is indeed in love in Tatiana and in his home he can talk as much as he is inspired. Thirdly, Gremin maybe knows that Onegin and Tatiana had have something in the past, but I am playing it as I don’t know anything about it, since I think the shock for Onegin is then bigger and stronger. What did he miss in Tatiana...

5. HOW is Gremin telling this to Onegin?
Sincere, dignified, proud and with eloquence. He is truly in love with Tatiana and he doesn’t hide it.