Ariodante
In Scotland, Princess Ginevra is betrothed to Prince Ariodante, but the Duke Polinesso desires her. Polinesso persuades Ginevra’s attendant Dalinda to disguise herself as the princess and admit him to Ginevra’s chamber. Ariodante sees them and believes Ginevra unfaithful; he attempts suicide, and Ginevra is condemned. Polinesso later hires men to kill Dalinda, but Ariodante rescues her and learns the truth. Lurcanio challenges Polinesso to a duel and mortally wounds him. Before dying, Polinesso confesses his plot. The King pardons Ginevra, and she and Ariodante are reunited.