Sapho was Gounod's first opera, and while it hardly ranks among his most popular stage works (i.e., Faust and Romeo and Juliette), it received some attention in the late twentieth and early twenty first centuries. The opera consists of three acts, though several versions of it were given in the decades following its 1851 premiere in two acts and four acts.

The libretto was fashioned by Emile Augier and its story is set in ancient Greece. Sapho has its share of complexities and plot twists, but largely centers on a love triangle between nobleman Phaon, poetess Sapho, and the courtesan, Glycere. In the end, Glycere's clever intrigues drive Phaon and Sapho apart, and Sapho commits suicide.

Though the opera is clearly not on the level with Gounod's best works, it certainly contains many fine moments, and more than a few hints of the great operas to come. The Act I "Puis-je oublier" is lovely in its passionate outpourings, as Phaon admits to Pytheas that he is not only in love with Sapho, but with Glycere, as well. The Act I choral number "Viola Sapho," soars in its lush beauty and melting romantic warmth. Other highlights in Act I include "Alcee's Liberté, déesse austere."

Act II begins with a colorful chorus, "Gloire a Bachus," and soon moves on to the heroic number "Oui, jurons tous," wherein the plot against the tyrant ruler of Lesbos, Pittacus, is conceived. The duet between Pytheas and Glycere that comes later, "Il m'aurait plu," is also quite attractive, as is the trio near the end of the act, "Je viens sauver ta tete," sung by Sapho, Phaon, and Glycere.

The last act is darker in character and features Phaon's moving "O jours heureux," wherein he bemoans his misfortunes in love and life. Sapho's closing "O ma lyre immortelle" is also a touching aria, a tragic close that comes just before she leaps into the sea.

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