Sketch the role of Bosola as a Machiavellian villain in The Duchess of Malfi

Answer

Sketch the role of Bosola as a Machiavellian villain in “The Duchess of Malfi.”

Or, Write a note on the role of Bosola in “The Duchess of Malfi”. [NU. 2021, 2018, 2015]

The term Machiavellian comes from Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian writer. He wrote a book called The Prince, where he said that rulers should lie, cheat, and even kill if it helps them stay in power. A Machiavellian villain is immoral, cunning, cruel, and does not care about right or wrong.

Bosola as a Machiavellian Villain: In “The Duchess of Malfi,” first performed in 1613 or 1614, Daniel de Bosola is a very important character. John Webster (1578-1632) portrays him as a complex villain. Bosola is immoral, cunning, and cruel, and he also feels guilty at the end. He shows many qualities of a Machiavellian villain. 

Here we will take a closer look at Bosola’s character and role in the play.

An Immoral Criminal: Bosola starts the play as an immoral criminal. He does the dirty work for money. Ferdinand and the Cardinal, the Duchess’s corrupt brothers, hire him to spy on the Duchess. Ferdinand sets him as a stable master at the Duchess’s court. Bosola pretends to serve the Duchess but reports her actions to her brothers. Bosola says:

“Sir, I served your tyranny, and rather strove 

 To satisfy yourself than all the world.”

It shows that Bosola is immoral. He is ready to do anything to serve his masters. Bosola is also a contract killer. Before the events of the play, he spent time in jail for murdering a man on the orders of the Cardinal. Thus, he is a Machiavellian villain who is ready to do anything for his gain.

A Cunning Spy: Bosola is a very cunning spy. He is clever and knows how to use his words. He uses his keen observation to spy on the Duchess. For example, he finds out about the Duchess’s secret marriage and pregnancy using small clues