Description
By: John Webster (c.1580 – c.1634)
The Duchess of Malfi is a tragic tale of love, betrayal, and revenge set in a corrupt and violent society. The story follows the Duchess, a strong and independent woman who marries beneath her station in secret, only to be discovered by her powerful and malevolent brothers. The play explores themes of power, gender, and morality, as well as the consequences of ambition and greed.
Webster’s writing is both poetic and haunting, with powerful imagery and complex characters that draw the reader in from the very first page. The dialogue is sharp and tense, full of wit and passion, creating a sense of tension and foreboding that builds throughout the play.
The characters themselves are fascinating and well-developed, particularly the Duchess herself. Her strength and resolve in the face of betrayal and tragedy make her a compelling and sympathetic protagonist, while her brothers provide a chilling contrast with their greed and cruelty.
Overall, The Duchess of Malfi is a gripping and thought-provoking play that delves deep into the dark side of human nature. It is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today, challenging them to consider the consequences of their actions and the true nature of power and corruption.
Book Description:
John Webster’s bloody Jacobean tragedy exposes the decadence of the Italian court. The virtuous Duchess of Malfi, a young widow, secretly marries her steward Antonio, and is subsequently persecuted by her brothers: the sexually obsessed and eventually mad Ferdinand, and the corrupt Cardinal.
