What characteristic is typical of the style of opera from the Baroque period?

The characteristic that highlights the style of opera from the Baroque period is its strong focus on narrative through music. Baroque opera is known for its ability to convey dramatic stories and emotions, with composers such as Claudio Monteverdi and George Frideric Handel utilizing music to enhance the storytelling element. This era emphasized the importance of using music as a vehicle for expressing character emotions and advancing the plot, often through the use of recitative and arias.

The operatic form was developed to create an immersive experience that brought to life the characters' experiences and deeper themes in the narrative, making the music intrinsically tied to the plot. This focus on narrative through music is what sets Baroque opera apart and is a defining characteristic of its style, as opposed to merely showcasing vocal talent or adhering to strict classical forms.