in the club The prostitute, Violetta, physically weakened by disease and drugs, much to her own surprise falls in love with a well-to-do young gentleman, Alfredo.
in the country When Alfredo’s father comes to beg Violetta to renounce her love for his son because their relationship would destroy his youngest daughter’s chances to marry the man he is considering for her, he convinces her with the words: “Men often prove to be fickle. As soon as the initial joys of love fade, boredom will soon set in. What then? Forget this bubble. Be rather the guardian angel of the family. Think about it, it is not too late, young lady, it is God who puts these words into this father’s mouth.” Violetta answers: “There is no hope for a woman once she has strayed from the path. Even if God grants her pardon, it is the man who is relentless.” Violetta leaves her lover, telling him that she has found someone else.
in the club Alfredo is desperate and at a party of their mutual friend Flora he behaves awkwardly and rudely towards his ex-lover Violetta. He plays cards with the Baron, Violetta’s so-called new boyfriend, and wins. Violetta, fearing a fight between the two men, tries to convince Alfredo to leave. Alfredo, tortured by jealousy, calls on the guests to gather around. While all their friends look on, he throws the money he has just won into Violetta’s face. “So, now I have paid you back for your services!”
in the country Violetta is broken. Alfredo is overcome by shame. He had already been so deeply in love with her, but now that he has learned the true reason for her rejection of him he adores her and begs her forgiveness, which she grants him. The father also realizes that he has acted inhumanely to her, and she forgives him as well. She dies.
