Verdi's Don Carlos is an opera composed by Giuseppe Verdi, based on the play by Friedrich Schiller. Set in 16th-century Spain, it explores themes of love, political intrigue, and the struggle for freedom. The story revolves around Don Carlos, the son of King Philip II, who is in love with Elisabeth de Valois, the king's new wife. The opera features a rich score and complex characters, highlighting the tension between personal desires and political duties. It includes notable arias and choruses, showcasing Verdi's mastery of dramatic storytelling through music. The work is often performed in its original French version or in Italian.