Having composed five operas in the 1850s, Verdi, while looking for a suitable libretto, came across a manuscript of Eugčne Scribe which had already been the subject of works by other composers. Although the political aspect only played a minor role in the plot, the censor's office demanded that the locale be moved outside Europe. The world premiere in Rome on 17 February 1859 was a huge triumph for Verdi and 'Un Ballo in Maschera' with is brilliant arias and effective choral scenes. Kurt Pahlen juxtaposes the Italian text with the translation of the libretto frequently used at German theatres, adding information on the compositional structure and context to the musical as well as external and internal dramatic action of the opera. A short synopsis and a brief outline of the genesis bring the work into relation with the composer's entire oeuvre and life, thus offering a comprehensive, richly illustrated introduction.