What is a common theme found in the text of an oratorio?

The common theme found in the text of an oratorio is biblical narratives. Oratorios are typically large-scale musical compositions for orchestra, choir, and soloists that are concert pieces and not intended for theatrical performance. They often focus on sacred subjects, drawing stories and themes directly from biblical texts, such as the life of Jesus, the creation stories, or other significant religious events.

This focus on scripture is integral to the structure and purpose of oratorios, which are designed to convey religious messages and evoke emotional responses from the audience through powerful music and storytelling. The use of biblical narratives allows composers to explore profound theological themes, moral lessons, and the human experience in relation to the divine, creating a rich connection between the music and its spiritual context.