Protestantism and opera

Good to run into a delegation of Arts and Science Students at opera yesterday. Don Carlos is four and a half hours, an opera of Wagnerian length. Ajzenstat was with me, has seen the opera many times, told me this was the best production he's seen
In my opinion the central character, the one who gives the opera focus and stature was Phillip ll, sung and acted by a wonderful Norwegian.
The opera has 2 connections with West Civ. First, Phillip ll was meant to be the hero of the CounterReformation.I was intrigued that Verdi never mentioned that the Flanders Rebellion was Protestant. One of the early victories of the Calvinists.
There is also a view of Macchiavelli. Phillip is portrayed as a ruthless monarch being crushed by the (what he sees) as the necessities of maintaining power. The Scene where he bemoans his isolation, loveless marriage, son a traitor etc.maes you feel sorry for him..glad to be a powerless retiree.
There is also a brutal portrayal of Catholicism . Bloody crosses ,a well staged auto de fe, a villainous Grand Inquisitor...
Imagine singing for four and a half hours. I'm dead after two hours of yakking