Cardinal Flashcards
1
Q
“But if’t chance some cursed example poison’t near the head, death and diseases through the whole land spread.”
A
The “death and diseases” here symbolize the moral decay, suffering, and the eventual collapse of the state or family. The “head” represents the ruling class, and if the leaders are morally corrupt, the consequences will spread throughout the entire society.
2
Q
Plum trees that grow crooked over standing pools
A
- moral decay with the imagery of “crooked” trees suggesting distortion and moral corruption
- The “standing pools” beneath the trees can be seen as symbolic of stagnation and decay - pollutes and corrupts the wider environment
- contrasts with Antonio’s simile of the French court being a fountain. water - life-giving subverted to be riddled with death - depicting the threat of living in this ruthless world - even the pure and being tainted
3
Q
the marriage night is the entrance into some prison
A
- evokes images of restriction, isolation, and captivity - prolepsis, threat
- marriage is a way to control the Duchess’s actions, and their opposition to her secret marriage highlights their desire to keep her trapped in the constraints of their power
- but also represents the confining of women within marriage: confining experience, limiting freedom and autonomy
4
Q
“I have taken you off your melancholy perch
A
- Imagery of falconry, cardinal utilises to sex and desire to keep and control her, manipulating her
- The Cardinal is not expressing genuine concern for Julia’s emotional state - rather manipulation - The line is a reflection of his manipulation, as he attempts to make her feel indebted or reliant on him for emotional stability.
5
Q
The spring in his face is nothing but the engend’ring of toads
A
- Cardinal’s apparent vitality or charm masks a much more repulsive and morally corrupt nature.
- ## The Cardinal is shown to be a hypocrite appearing virtuous and wise but privately engaging in deceit, manipulation, and immorality.
