Critic Quotes- Malfi

Question 1

Gamaliel Bradford, early 20th century

Answer 1

“The duchess is a victim of a cruel and hopeless fatality, which pursues her relentlessly until the very end.”

Question 2

Phyllida Lloyd 2003

Answer 2

“ the character of the duchess is very much who she is, her own soul, but she’s also the repository for the feelings of everyone around her.”

Question 3

David Cecil, Mid 20th century

Answer 3

“ the world, as seen is, of its nature, incurable corrupt… all it’s apparent beauties are a snare and a delusion.”

Question 4

T.S Elliot 1920

Answer 4

“ Webster was much possessed by death and saw the skull beneath the skin.”

Question 5

Irving Ribner

Answer 5

“The duchess stands for ordinary humanity, love and the continuity of life through children.”

Question 6

P.B Murray

Answer 6

“The radiant spirit of the Duchess cannot be killed.”

Question 7

Kenneth Tynan, 1960

Answer 7

“Webster’s people are most themselves when the knife, noose or potion is nearest: you might say that his plays come alive the closer they get to death.”

Question 8

Muriel Bradbrook

Answer 8

“With all his many roles, Bosola is never permitted the luxury of being a self”