The story is based on the mythology surrounding Bacchus and Ariadne (Ariane). The Gods, among them the demi-god Bacchus, appear in human form in ancient India to attempt to persuade the people away from the pervading Buddhist influence. Ariane has followed them, convinced that Bacchus is in fact Theseus, her unrequited love. In the end, Ariane sacrifices herself to save humanity and in doing so, Bacchus becomes a God.
Although not a proper sequel, as Ariane dies in both pieces, Bacchus is a companion to Massenet's earlier opera, Ariane. Of Massenet's twenty-five operas, Bacchus is probably the least known, without a modern performance history or single modern recording. The ballet music has been recorded and issued appropriately by Naxos (company).
Written "Kéléyi" in the cast list, but Kéléyï everywhere else, e.g. Mendès, Catulle; Massenet, Jules (1909). Bacchus. Paris: Au Ménestrel / Heugel et Cie. pp.Table of Contents. Retrieved 1 August 2020.
In the Act III ballet, Charles Javon substituted for Duclos. See Mendès, Catulle; Massenet, Jules (1909). Bacchus. Paris: Au Ménestrel / Heugel et Cie. p.Front matter: Dances. Retrieved 1 August 2020.
In the Table of Contents, scenes without dialogue or vocal lines are generally (but not always) listed only by the main group performing them, in the same manner as the main singer is listed for the songs. The descriptions used here are summarised from the actions described in the score.
Mendès, Catulle; Massenet, Jules (1909). Bacchus. Paris: Au Ménestrel / Heugel et Cie. pp.Table of Contents. Retrieved 1 August 2020. Additional clarifications, where needed, are referenced specifically.