The Duchess of Malfi: Overview of Characters and Plot
Discover the key characters in John Webster's renowned play, "The Duchess of Malfi," including the Duchess herself, her brothers Ferdinand and the Cardinal, Antonio, Bosola, and more. Unravel the tragic events surrounding secret marriages, envy, greed, and betrayal, leading to a gripping tale of power struggles and manipulation in this classic Jacobean drama.
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Presentation Transcript
The Duchess of Malfi Prepared by Emran Khan
The Duchess of Malfi is generally considered to be John Websters greatest work. He probably wrote it in either 1613 or 1614, and it was first staged before the end of 1614. The play is based on the true story of Giovanna of Aragon, Duchess of Malfi, who was widowed at about 20 years old and then secretly wed Antonio Bologna in a service witnessed only by her waiting-woman, a similar situation to that which Webster dramatized. Though not all the details of the historical situation are known, the major plot points of the true story are the same as Webster s version, save the retribution visited upon the brothers. In real life, the guilty parties were never brought to any justice.
Characters The Duchess of Malfi (Duchess Giovanna of Aragon): The protagonist of the play. She is a widow and the sister of Ferdinand and the Cardinal. She secretly marries Antonio, her steward, which leads to tragic consequences. Ferdinand, the Duke of Calabria: The Duchess's twin brother, consumed by jealousy and an obsession with controlling his sister. He is one of the play's main antagonists and plays a pivotal role in the unfolding tragedy. The Cardinal, Ferdinand's brother: A corrupt and ambitious churchman, he is equally determined to control the Duchess's life and fortune. He is ruthless and willing to manipulate others to achieve his goals.
Antonio Bologna: The steward of the Duchess and her secret husband. He is a kind and honest man who loves the Duchess deeply and marries her despite the social and political consequences. Bosola: A former servant of the Cardinal and Ferdinand, later hired as a spy and assassin. He is a complex character torn between moral conflict and loyalty to those who employ him Julia, the Cardinal's mistress: She is involved in an affair with the Cardinal and is used as a pawn in the power struggles within the play. She is ultimately betrayed and manipulated by the Cardinal. Delio: Antonio's friend and confidant, who serves as a loyal and trustworthy advisor to both Antonio and the Duchess.
1. Cariola: The Duchess's maid and confidante, who supports the Duchess and Antonio in their secret marriage. She meets a tragic end due to her involvement. 2. Silvio: Julia's brother, who is murdered by Bosola on the orders of Ferdinand.
