Emilia Galotti by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing. Short summary

5 seconds

The ruler of an Italian province falls in love with an ordinary girl. He learns that she is marrying someone else. The prince tells his feelings to the chamberlain, who tries to help him.

1 minute

The ruler of the Italian province, Prince Gonzaga considers a portrait of his former lover, Countess Orsina. Now he is dissatisfied with the work of the artist and the latter shows him another portrait, that of Emilia Galotti.

The prince confesses that he knows this girl. He once met her and her mother in a society and spoke to her. Lately he has thought of her incessantly. The girl’s father was an honest and principled warrior with whom the ruler did not get along. The artist leaves a portrait of Emilia. In front of the canvas, the prince pours out his feelings.

The ruler receives a letter from Countess Orsin, but does not want to read it. His wedding is due to take place soon. This does not worry the Countess; she is worried that the Prince has fallen in love with another.

Marinelli informs the Prince that the marriage of Count Appiani and Emilia Gallotti will soon take place, which throws him into despair. He admits to the chamberlain that he loves the girl. Marinelli helps the prince with Emilia. The ruler approaches her in church and confesses his love.