Alessandro nell’ Indie

After the defeat of Poro’s army on the banks of the Hydaspes River, the king faces Alessandro on the battlefield, accompanied by Gandarte, confessing his love for Cleofide and fearing for her fate. Alessandro, in turn, demonstrates clemency by freeing the prisoner Erissena, Poro’s sister, who falls in love with him. In contrast, Timagene, his confidant, reveals a deep hatred and desire for revenge against the conqueror. In her kingdom, Cleofide is anguished over Poro’s fate; he returns announcing Alessandro’s victory and expressing doubts about his beloved’s fidelity. Erissena then identifies Timagene as an enemy of Alessandro and a possible ally.

With the approach of the Greek army, a new battle breaks out at the Hydaspes bridge. Poro is again defeated and taken prisoner, but Timagene frees him to prove that he is against Alessandro. He advances on Cleofide’s kingdom, takes her prisoner and proposes marriage to her. However, Gandarte appears disguised as Poro and offers to change places with the supposed beloved, convincing Alessandro to free them both, moved by the courage and sacrifice demonstrated.

Convinced by Erissena that Poro had committed suicide, Cleofide agrees to marry Alessandro at the Temple of Bacchus. However, at the moment of the wedding, she is unable to hide her pain and confesses her love for Poro, who reappears, alive after all. Touched by the courage and loyalty demonstrated, Alessandro restores the kingdom and wife to Poro, and is finally acclaimed a hero.