Engraving of Anastasia Robinson

Oronte, a Persian general, has killed and usurped the throne from Nino, the rightful king. After his victory, Oronte took Elisa, the surviving infant daughter of Nino and raised her as his own daughter, who had died the day of the battle. This daughter, Elmira, has been promised in marriage to Floridante, Prince of Thrace and warrior in the cause of Oronte. His other daughter, Rossane, was betrothed to Timante, Prince of Tyre, but war between Tyre and Persia put an end to the possibility of this marriage, and Timante is believed to have been lost in the battle.