How has the personality of the Duchess been glorified through her untold sufferings? Discuss it.

Answer

How has the personality of the Duchess been glorified through her untold sufferings? Discuss it.

Or, How far is the Duchess in “The Duchess of Malfi” responsible for her own tragedy?

In John Webster’s (c. 1578 – c. 1632) play “The Duchess of Malfi” (1623), the Duchess is a character who is the exception for her strength and liveliness. Throughout the play, her personality is glorified through her many sufferings. Despite her challenges, she remains dignified and strong. It makes her a noble and admirable figure. Let us discuss the character of the Duchess.

Defiance and Independence: At the beginning of the play, the Duchess is portrayed as a young and beautiful widow. Her brothers, Ferdinand and the Cardinal try to control her and prevent her from remarrying. However, the Duchess disobeys them and secretly marries Antonio, her steward. This act of defiance shows her independence and courage. She says,

I am Duchess of Malfi still.

It asserts her identity and right to make choices, even in the face of opposition.

Growing Sufferings: As the play moves, the Duchess’s sufferings begin to grow. Her brothers are furious when they learn about her marriage and her children. In particular, Ferdinand is angered and becomes obsessed with punishing her. He imprisons her in her palace and subjects her to psychological torture. Despite this, the Duchess remains strong. She says, 

I account this world a tedious theatre,

For I do play a part in’t ‘gainst my will.

It expresses her tiredness but also her strength. She understands her situation but does not let it break her spirit.

Intense Moments of Torture: One of the most intense moments in the play is when the Duchess is shown the wax figures of her dead family. It makes her believe they have been killed. This cruel trick is meant to break her, but she responds with remarkable composure. She says,

Peace, it affrights not me.

It shows