Mourning Eurydice’s death, Orpheus implores the god Jupiter to bring his beloved companion back to life. Should Jupiter refuse, he, Orpheus, will descend into Hades and lead Eurydice out of the realm of the dead himself. Shortly afterwards, Cupid, the god of love, appears to tell Orpheus that his wish for Eurydice to be liberated will be granted. First, however, Orpheus must win over the guardians of Hades, and may on no account set look back at Eurydice as they return.

Orpheus descends into Hades, where he encounters the Furies as they guard the entrance to the realm of the dead. He attempts to appease the wild creatures with his song, and after a while succeeds in doing so.

In Elysium, Eurydice and several other blessed spirits are extolling the beauty of this divine place. When Orpheus first arrives, Eurydice is nowhere to be seen. When she finally appears, she can scarcely contain her joy, but her doubts are raised when Orpheus avoids her gaze. Does he still love her? Why has he taken the journey upon himself if he can no longer set eyes on her?

Orpheus eventually ignores the gods’ terms and turns back to look at Eurydice. Hs beloved dies that very same moment. When Orpheus realises this, he decides to kill himself so as to be able to be with Eurydice, whereupon the god Cupid appears once more and leads Eurydice back to life.