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Influenced by the literature and painting of the era, 19th-century music was, marked by intensely personal expressions of emotion. In order to state their individuality with greater freedom, composers disregarded the limits of set forms. They enjoyed writing music that was more pictorial than earlier works and often attempted to imitate nature. The new compositions often lacked the cheerfulness of the classical era. In the search for self-expression, composers of the Romantic period were aroused …

…in such late masterpieces as 'Otello' (1887) and 'Falstaff' (1893). The emotional impact, drama, and soaring melodies that characterize his operas are also found in such works as his 'Requiem' and 'Four Sacred Pieces'. His 'Rigoletto' (1851), 'Il Trovatore' and 'La Traviata' (both 1853), and 'Aida' (1871) will be staged as long as operas are performed. He died in Milan on Jan. 27, 1901. A Verdi museum has been established in La Scala opera house in Milan to honor his work there.