Figaro is one of the most iconic and enduring characters in the world of theater and opera. Known for his quick wit, clever schemes, and lively personality, he plays a central role in The Barber of Seville, a comic opera that continues to captivate audiences around the globe. But who exactly is Figaro, and why is he so closely associated with the title of barber? Is Figaro truly the Barber of Seville, or is there more to his identity and story than the title suggests? To answer this question thoroughly, we must explore the origins of the character, the context of the opera, and his appearances in related works of literature and music.
Who Is Figaro?
A Character Born from Literature
Figaro was first introduced by French playwright Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais in a trilogy of plays known as the Figaro Trilogy. The three plays are:
- The Barber of Seville (1775)
- The Marriage of Figaro (1784)
- The Guilty Mother (1792)
In these stories, Figaro is portrayed as a resourceful and sharp-minded servant who often helps his masters navigate complex social and romantic entanglements. His intelligence and charisma made him a favorite among audiences and a symbol of cleverness overcoming aristocratic foolishness.
The Evolution into Opera
Figaro gained further fame when composers turned Beaumarchais’ plays into operas. The most famous of these adaptations are:
- Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville) by Gioachino Rossini, premiered in 1816.
- Le nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, premiered in 1786.
In both operas, Figaro remains the same witty and strategic character, but each focuses on different stages of his life. The first introduces him as a barber in Seville, while the second follows his later adventures as a valet in Count Almaviva’s household.
Is Figaro Really the Barber of Seville?
The Answer Is Yes But With Context
Yes, Figaro is indeed the Barber of Seville. In Rossini’s opera, which is based on the first play in Beaumarchais’ trilogy, Figaro is a barber by profession and lives in Seville, Spain. The plot centers around Figaro helping Count Almaviva win the heart of the lovely Rosina. As a barber, Figaro doesn’t just cut hair he acts as a matchmaker, messenger, and master manipulator.
His Role in the Opera
In The Barber of Seville, Figaro is far more than a hairdresser. He is a man of many talents who uses his connections and intelligence to assist the Count in outwitting Rosina’s guardian, Doctor Bartolo, who also wants to marry her. Figaro’s role is pivotal; without his plans and disguises, the Count would not be able to reach Rosina or win her affection. His lively entrance aria, Largo al factotum, where he boasts of being the town’s go-to man for everything, captures his energy and importance to the story.
Figaro’s Other Occupations
More Than a Barber
While Figaro starts as a barber in Seville, his character evolves in later stories. In The Marriage of Figaro, he has moved up in the world and now works as a personal valet to Count Almaviva. This shift in role demonstrates Figaro’s adaptability and ambition. Though he’s no longer a barber, he continues to play a central role in the unfolding drama, this time involving his own wedding to Susanna and his efforts to outsmart the Count’s attempts to seduce her.
The Symbolism of the Barber
In the 18th century, a barber was not just someone who cut hair. Barbers also performed minor surgeries, pulled teeth, and even served as community advisers. Figaro, as the Barber of Seville, reflects this multifaceted role. He is a man who moves between social classes with ease, assisting nobles while retaining the insight and street smarts of a commoner. This blend of skills and mobility makes him an especially compelling character.
Figaro’s Legacy in Popular Culture
A Lasting Presence
Figaro has become one of the most recognized figures in Western theatrical history. His name is often invoked to represent cleverness, rebellion, and ingenuity. The line Figaro, Figaro, Figaro! from Rossini’s opera is instantly recognizable, even to those who have never seen the full performance. It has appeared in cartoons, commercials, films, and more.
Opera’s Most Beloved Character
Few opera characters have achieved the enduring fame of Figaro. His charisma, humor, and intelligence continue to resonate with audiences centuries after his creation. Whether portrayed as a barber or a valet, his role as a cunning helper and social critic remains central to the operas in which he appears.
Why the Question Still Arises
Multiple Appearances Create Confusion
Some confusion exists because Figaro appears in multiple works under different circumstances. Those familiar with The Marriage of Figaro or other adaptations might not immediately associate him with his original profession. Additionally, the existence of various operas and plays can make it unclear where the title ‘Barber of Seville’ actually comes from.
Clarifying the Timeline
It helps to view Figaro’s story as a continuous narrative:
- In The Barber of Seville, Figaro is a barber living in Seville who helps Count Almaviva win Rosina.
- In The Marriage of Figaro, he is engaged to Susanna and works for the Count.
- In The Guilty Mother, the story continues with more mature themes, showing Figaro in a supporting role.
Thus, the title Barber of Seville reflects a specific period in Figaro’s life, not his entire identity.
Figaro Is the Barber of Seville
There is no doubt that Figaro is the Barber of Seville at least during the events of the first play and opera in the Figaro Trilogy. He begins his journey as a barber who uses his intelligence and social savvy to manipulate the world around him. As the story continues, he takes on new roles, but his original profession and his exploits in Seville are what first earned him fame. Figaro’s character stands as a testament to wit, charm, and the power of the underdog, securing his place as one of the most beloved figures in theatrical and operatic history. His story, beginning with his life as a barber, continues to inspire and entertain across generations.