How has the personality of the Duchess been glorified through her untold sufferings? Discuss it.
The Duchess of Malfi is a notable literary work by John Webster. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Duchess of Malfi.
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 her bravery and her acceptance of her fate. Even in the face of such horror, she remains calm and dignified.
The Peak of Suffering: The Duchess’s suffering reaches its peak when she is imprisoned in a dark room and eventually strangled on her brothers’ orders. However, even in her final moments, she remains dignified and composed. She says,
Who would be afraid on’t,
Knowing to meet such excellent company
In th’other world?
Her acceptance of death and belief in a better afterlife show her spiritual strength and inner peace. She dies gracefully, and this final act of courage and dignity glorifies her character.
Noble Qualities Highlighted: Throughout the play, the Duchess’s sufferings highlight her noble qualities. Her strength, courage, and dignity in the face of merciless persecution make her an admirable and heroic figure. Despite the efforts of her brothers to break her, she remains true to herself. This determined strength is what glorifies her personality.
Contrast with Corruption: Moreover, the Duchess’s suffering also exposes the cruelty and corruption of those around her, particularly her brothers. Their cruel actions contrast sharply with her integrity and nobility. This contrast further enhances the Duchess’s character. It makes her exceptionally good as a sign of strength and virtue in a corrupt and unjust world.
In conclusion, the personality of the Duchess in “The Duchess of Malfi” is glorified through her sufferings. Her courage, dignity, and strength in the face of unbelievable hardships make her an admirable and heroic figure. The Duchess’s personality shines through her sufferings. It makes her one of the most memorable and glorified characters in English literature.