From the outset, French opera generated a huge diversity of literature, familiarity with which greatly enhances our understanding of this unique art form. Yet very little of that literature is available in English, despite a recent upsurge of interest. Drawing on a wide range of sources, this book provides an often entertaining insight into Lully¿s Royal Academy of Music, and the colourful characters who surrounded it, to present an informative picture of the organization and evolution of French Baroque opera, its aims and aspirations, and its strengths and weaknesses. The translated passages are set in context, and readers are directed to further scholarly and critical writings in English.