Synopsis

Act 1

The tetrarch Herod celebrates his birthday with a select group of guests. Two soldiers and the centurion Narraboth are guarding the prisoner Jochanaan. Narraboth is in love with Herod's stepdaughter Salome. He ignores the page's warnings. The prophet's voice is heard from the dungeon. He announces the arrival of the Messiah.

Disgusted by her stepfather's intrusiveness, Salome leaves the table. She listens to the prophet's admonitions and wants to see him. She persuades Narraboth to defy the tetrarch's express prohibition and fulfill her wish.

Jochanaan appears before Salome. Without paying any attention to her at first, he accuses her stepfather of an incestuous marriage to her mother Herodias. The strange man awakens Salome's longing and desire. She is overcome by the desire to touch his hair and body and kiss his mouth. Her rapture drives Narraboth to suicide. The prophet rejects Salome, saying that there is only one person who can save her: Jesus of Nazareth. When Salome does not let go of Jochanaan, he curses her and retreats to his prison.

The Tetrarch appears in search of Salome. Once again, the prophet's warning voice can be heard. Herodias demands that he be handed over to the Jews. Herod resists because he considers Jochanaan to be a holy man, a view that provokes a fierce dispute among the Jews: while some see him as a charlatan, the Nazarenes revere him as the harbinger of salvation.

Herod asks Salome to dance for him. She only agrees after he has sworn an oath to fulfill her every wish as a reward. Salome dances and demands the head of Jochanaan. The horrified Herod offers her the most precious treasures, but Salome insists on her demand. She is lost in the sight of the severed head. When she finally kisses the prophet's bloody mouth, Herod orders her to be killed.