Opera and nationalism in Latin America: the irrational as ideology through complex hegemonies

Abstract

Between the second half of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, we find an important list of operas created by Latin American composers, among which a large number of nationalist styles stand out. Considering these works, the present work aims to recognize the complexity of the hegemony regarding Latin American opera as a cultural phenomenon, as well as the irrational-rational tension that makes this company possible. According to the analysis of works, they are mainly divided into two groups: those that narrate independence or state construction and those that identify indigenous or subordinate figures to confirm identity, both national and continental. At the end of the article, it is recognized that Latin American opera responds to complex power relations and national and international hegemonies, which make effective, on the one hand, the feeling of community and, on the other, that of national and identity identities.