Karol Szymanowski 18811937 the most important Polish composer after Chopin wrote only two operas the second of which King Roger completed in 1924 is a masterpiece. After decades of neglect this magnificent work has begun to receive more attention around the world and this first extended study of King Roger investigates its origins uncovers its ideology examines its music and documents its history. The book opens with an outline of the role the theatre played in Szymanowskis career from his ea