In what context did the composition style for opera seria develop?

The composition style for opera seria developed primarily in the context of royal courts and elite audiences. This genre of opera, which flourished in the late 17th and 18th centuries, was characterized by its serious themes and a focus on noble or mythological subjects, often designed to impress and entertain a sophisticated audience.

Opera seria typically featured virtuosic arias that showcased the talent of prominent singers, and the stories often included themes of honor, love, and tragedy, which appealed to the tastes of the aristocracy. Composers like Handel, Vivaldi, and later Mozart wrote operas specifically for the enjoyment of the wealthy elite, reflecting their cultural values and interests. This environment allowed for elaborate staging, intricate musical compositions, and heightened expressions of drama, all meant to demonstrate the power and refinement of both the art form and its patrons.

The other contexts provided do not align with the primary purpose and audience of opera seria. While opera did interact with public theaters and included elements of popular music or dance, the core of opera seria was rooted in its service to the elite and the distinction it held as a prestigious art form, separate from more popular or folk traditions.