The+Phantom+Of+the+Opera

//The Phantom of the Opera// is a novel by Gaston Leroux, a French author. It was originally published in Le Gaulois in 1909. After, it was published in volume form in 1910 by Pierre Lafitte. Gaston Leroux was inspired by historical events at the Paris Opera House during the 19th century. //The Phantom of the Opera// was later made into a play and films, which are very well known.

//The Phantom of the Opera// takes place in the Paris Opera House during the 19th century. The opera singer Christine does very well on stage at the manager’s retirement. Raoul, a friend of Christine, hears her and states that he is in love with her. Rumors of a phantom, which is a ghost, go around the Opera House. Eventually, the phantom makes himself known through threatening letters to the new managers and acts of violence. Another singer, Carlotta, sings the main role one night. This was against the phantom’s wishes, which were stated in a letter to the managers. Carlotta loses her voice on stage and the grand chandelier falls into the crowd. The phantom is in love with Christine. The phantom kidnaps her and brings her to his house underneath the Opera House. He identifies himself as Erik who has a mask on. He takes off the mask to reveal a horrifying face. Christine has to make a choice between Erik and Raoul, which turns deadly.

This story is very good to read before the trip because of the history. It explains how the culture of France was during the 19th century. It also explains the Paris Opera House, which is very beautiful and a big tourist attraction.