though perhaps not corresponding to the strict definition of leitmotif, several of verdi's operas feature similar thematic tunes, often introduced in the overtures or preludes, and recurring to mark the presence of a character or to invoke a particular sentiment. in "la forza del destino", the opening theme of the overture recurs whenever leonora feels guilt or fear. in "il trovatore", the theme of the first aria by azucena is repeated whenever she invokes the horror of how her mother was burnt alive and the devastating revenge she attempted then. in "don carlos", there are at least three leitmotifs that recur regularly across the five acts: the first is associated with the poverty and suffering from war, the second is associated with prayers around the tomb of carlos v, and the third is introduced as a duet between don carlo and the marquis of posa, thereafter accentuating sentiments of sincere friendship and loyalty.