Duchess of Malfi: Context Flashcards
Backdrop of Duchess of Malfi
- Early 17th century
- Jacobean era
- Set in Italy
- Revenge tragedy
What is a malcontent?
A character who is often discontent with the social structure and other characters in the play (e.g Bosola)
What is a machiavellian?
A villainous character who is cunning and duplicitous
What year was The Duchess of Malfi written?
1612-1613
Why is the Duchess of Malfi based in Italy?
- For English theatergoers of Webster’s time, Italy represented corruption and deception. Therefore, was a safer setting than England for describing the immoral actions of the aristocracy
- Anti-catholic sentiment
What were the views about catholicism within Italy in
Who is the character of the Duchess based on?
Giovanna d’Aragona, Duchess of Amalfi
Who is a malcontent in the play?
Bosola; he is malcontent - unhappy, unsettled and displeased with the way of the world
What does the malcontent often show?
A variable level of morality - their morality will change over the course of the play
Where does the term ‘Machiavellian’ come from?
Italian renaissance diplomat Niccolo Machiavelli, who wrote ‘the Prince’
How were catholics viewed in the Jacobean era?
Considered traitors: linked to the gunpowder plot, inability to ‘trust face’ as Catholics would practice in private
How was the class structure in Jacobean England?
incredibly rigid; it was very rare for anyone to marry outside of the class they were born into
Where was the play first performed?
In Blackfriars, more intimate and frequented by the intellectuals - allowed for more sneaking and subtle lighting
Who was the king when the play was written?
King James I
What was King James’ court like in reality?
James’s court was infamous for its profligacy and corruption. He himself showered his favourites with money, offices and privileges
