Alfredo, not realizing his father has already arrived, explains that Germont has written him a severe letter but that he feels sure he will approve of Violetta as soon as he sees her. She is preparing a letter as Alfredo returns. Germont’s insistence finally convinces Violetta, who agrees to leave Alfredo forever. He asks her to give up Alfredo, explaining that by continuing the liaison, Alfredo is endangering the impending marriage of his younger sister. When Germont comments on the luxury of the country retreat, Violetta shows him the papers that have been prepared for the sale of all her possessions. Violetta receives an unexpected visitor, Giorgio Germont, Alfredo’s father, who declares that Alfredo is ruining himself to keep her as his mistress. Alfredo suddenly understands the sacrifices that Violetta has made in order to live with him and leaves for Paris, determined not to be shamed by her sacrifice. Annina, Violetta’s maid and confidante, enters and tells Alfredo she has been sent to arrange the sale of Violetta’s property, which must be sold to pay their debts. Violetta is living with Alfredo in the country, having abandoned her life of ease and luxury in Paris. When her guests have gone, Violetta thoughtfully muses on Alfredo’s proffered love, but finally returns to her true character and declares that she must remain forever free to pass from pleasure to pleasure. Alfredo joyously accepts and bids her goodnight. Violetta offers him friendship instead of love and gives him a flower, bidding him return when it has withered. Alfredo stays behind and confesses that he has been in love with her for a year. Later, as the others go to another room to dance, Violetta is overcome by a fainting spell. Alfredo then accepts the invitation and sings an impassioned tribute to beauty and love. Baron Douphol, one of Violetta’s “protectors,” is angered by the conversation and refuses to propose a toast when invited to by Gastone. Gastone arrives and presents his friend, Alfredo Germont, telling Violetta that Alfredo has long been a silent admirer and had even called daily during her illness to ask about her. A party is taking place at the home of Violetta Valéry, a beautiful Parisian demimondaine.
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