Set in mythical Peking, Princess Turandot declares she will marry any man of royal blood who can solve three riddles she sets him. Failure to solve the riddles will result in execution. Prince Calaf, in spite of many entreaties not to do so, wishes to seek the hand of Turandot. Calaf solves the riddles, but gives Turandot another chance to be rid of him. Ultimately, Turandot discovers that love is the answer she needs.