The Pilgrim's Progress (1678) by John Bunyan
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Great classical music inspired by books

11. The Pilgrim's Progress (1678) by John Bunyan
Vaughan Williams described his adaptation of the religious classic as a 'Morality' rather than an opera. Nonetheless, he intended the work to be performed on stage, rather than in a church or cathedral. His changes to the story included altering the name of the central character from 'Christian' to 'Pilgrim', so as to universalise the spiritual message.