This work, one of the many inspired by the story of the libertine Don Juan of the Spanish legend, is founded on a poem of the Hungarian writer Lenau (1802-1850). He presents the Don as a man in search of an ideal woman, in whom he can enjoy all perfections. He is continually disappointed, and finds nothing but weariness in all his adventures. At length Disgust (for thus is Satan figured in this version) brings an end to his adventures.
We find, then, in the music all the moods of Don Juan - his youthful fire, the maidenly charm of women, and then the philanderer's disappointment and spiritual defeat.