Tossup

An opera by this composer ends with a declaration that “he laughs well who laughs the final laugh,” which is then repeated in a fugue. (10[1])Leonie Rysanek substituted for Maria Callas in the 1959 Met premiere of an opera by this composer, performing as a character who was also one of Shirley Verrett’s first soprano roles. The title character of an opera by this composer sings about the meaning of “honor” while drinking at a Windsor inn. In an opera by this composer, a character sings the “Ave Maria” before being strangled to death. Until 2015, performers at the Met wore blackface to play a character in an opera by this composer who stabs himself next to his wife Desdemona. (-5[1])For 10 points, name this Italian composer whose Shakespearan operas include Macbeth and Otello. (10[1])■END■ (10[1]0[2])

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