Amadeus: historical context

Period and Setting

“Amadeus” is set in 18th century Vienna, which was considered the capital of European music.
The play spans approximately ten years, from 1781 - 1791, a critically important period in the careers of both Salieri and Mozart.

The play takes place during the Enlightenment period, an era marked by the celebration of reason, liberty and progress.
The central characters are deeply embedded in the courtly society of Vienna, where status was paramount. Appointment as the court composer was highly coveted and considered the pinnacle of a musician’s career.
Music was central to the social and cultural life of the period, with opera and symphonies being routinely funded by the nobility and religious institutions.

The protagonists, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri, were real historical figures. Shaffer, however, uses the historical facts about their lives somewhat loosely.
Mozart was a recognised prodigy and is depicted in the play as a genius suffering from the envy and manipulation of Salieri.
Salieri was a renowned composer of his times but has been presented in the play as an artist of lesser capability haunted by Mozart’s superior talent.
The French Revolution (1789-1799) happens off-stage during the timeline of the play.

When first staged, the play was a marked success, appealing to both audiences and critics, gaining wide popularity.
The play’s exploration of themes like jealousy, genius, mediocrity and God’s silence resonated strongly with audiences.
The play’s success led to a film adaptation, which won eight Academy Awards, further elevating the play’s reputation in modern culture.