PROLOGUE
Cupid, accompanied by a group of shepherds, sings of the power of Love.
ACT I
Venus and Adonis are seen embracing on a couch. The sound of a hunt is heard, and Venus eventually persuads the reluctant Adonis to join in the boar chase.
ACT II
Venus and Cupid discuss the arts of love and teach a group of infant Cupids how to spell. After a dance, the Graces enter and perform a suite of dances during which the Cupids adorn Venus.
ACT III
Venus is distraught as Adonis is brought in, mortally wounded by the boar. She implores the gods to have pity on her, but Adonis dies. The Cupids sing a chorus of mourning.