Bluebeard; a musical fantasy

"Bluebeard; a musical fantasy" by Kate Douglas Smith Wiggin is a musical work that combines elements of opera and fantasy, likely written in the early 20th century. The book draws inspiration from the popular fairy tale of Bluebeard, a character known for his polygamous tendencies and the dark fates that befall his wives. Wiggin's rendition offers a humorous and satirical twist on the traditional narrative, exploring themes of love, curiosity, and the consequences of marital choices through a contemporary lens. The plot centers around Fatima, the seventh wife of Bluebeard, who is swept off her feet by his allure, disregarding the ominous reputation he holds. Despite warnings, she succumbs to curiosity and opens a forbidden door in Bluebeard's castle, discovering the gruesome fates of his previous wives. The story unfolds into a comedic yet tragic opera, complete with vibrant characters such as Sister Anne and Mustapha, who eventually come to Fatima's rescue. The work cleverly critiques marital ambition and the dynamics between men and women, blending humor with serious themes while retaining the fantastical elements of the original tale. Ultimately, it serves as both entertainment and a moral commentary on the nature of relationships. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Kate Douglas Wiggin was an American educator, author and composer. She wrote children's stories, most notably the classic children's novel Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm, and composed collections of children's songs. She started the first free kindergarten in San Francisco in 1878. With her sister during the 1880s, she also established a training school for kindergarten teachers. Kate Wiggin devoted her adult life to the welfare of children in an era when children were commonly thought of as cheap labor.