This dissertation essay examines two contemporary operas, L'Amour de loin by Kaija Saariaho and Hamlet by Christian Jost. It describes the influences on each composer that led to their respective operas. In Chapter 1 of the essay, Kern presents both composers' biographies with particular emphasis on works leading up to the operas. Chapter 2 comprises a summary and discussion of the texts and librettos and their relationship to musical structure. This chapter is followed by in-depth analyses of selected scenes from each opera in Chapter 3. Despite Kaija Saariaho and Christian Jost's dissimilar backgrounds and musical styles, Kern shows how both composers explore similar types of dramatic development. The second part of the dissertation is a presentation of a portfolio of original compositions.