Comment on Webster’s use of imagery in The Duchess of Malfi

Answer

Comment on Webster’s use of imagery in “The Duchess of Malfi.”

In John Webster’s (1578-1626) revenge tragedy, “The Duchess of Malfi” (1623), imagery is a powerful tool. It evokes emotions, creates an atmosphere, and enhances the themes of corruption, mortality, and madness. Webster’s masterful use of vivid and often grotesque imagery draws the audience deep into the dark world of the play.

Gothic Atmosphere: Webster establishes an oppressive atmosphere through dark and gothic imagery. The play is set in a decaying and haunted palace. It is a reflection of the moral decay and corruption within the story. This imagery is particularly evident in scenes involving the Duchess’s imprisonment. For example, Ferdinand’s description of the “dead man’s hand” and the “horrid shapes” that appear in the Duchess’s chambers create a weird and foreboding mood. This shows the sense of impending doom. The imagery of darkness symbolizes the pervasive corruption and the inevitability of death.

Symbolism of Light and Darkness: The contrast between light and darkness is a recurring theme in the play. It symbolizes the battle between innocence and corruption, knowledge and ignorance. The Duchess herself is often associated with light, representing purity and virtue. In stark contrast, her brothers, Ferdinand and the Cardinal, are linked to darkness, embodying evil and deceit. This is clearly illustrated when Ferdinand, upon discovering the Duchess’s dead body, declares,

Cover her face. Mine eyes dazzle: she died young.

Here, the imagery of dazzling light suggests Ferdinand’s inner turmoil and guilt, as well as the blinding purity of the Duchess, which he cannot bear to face.

Grusome Imagery: Webster does not shy away from gruesome imagery to depict the brutal reality of the characters’ world. The scene where the Duchess is presented with a picture of wax figures resembling her dead family is particularly striking. Ferdinand’s cruelty is evident when he says,

Here is a present from your princely brothers. 

The lifelike wax figures symbolize the inescapable presence of death. It also shows the brothers’ sadistic control over the Duchess’s fate. This use of disturbing imagery not only shocks the audience but also emphasizes the themes of mortality and the fragility of life.

Image of Human Corruption: Webster frequently uses natural imagery to draw parallels between the natural world and human behavior. This often highlights the corruption inherent in society. The Duchess’s description of her brothers as “plum trees that grow crooked over standing pools” is a vivid example. This imagery suggests the brothers’ wealth and power are tainted and unnatural. It grows out of a stagnant and corrupt environment. It also reflects that their outward appearance of nobility disproves their inner moral decay.

Imagery of Madness and Chaos: The descent into madness is crucial to the play. Here, Webster’s use of imagery vividly portrays the character’s psychological breakdown. Ferdinand’s delusion that he is a wolf is depicted through unsettling and chaotic imagery. His behavior symbolizes the ultimate fragmentation of his mind. This imagery not only illustrates Ferdinand’s personal collapse but also serves as a metaphor for the broader dissolution of social order and morality in the play.

In conclusion, Webster’s use of imagery is integral to the play. It enriches the story and deepens the audience’s understanding of its themes. Through the strategic use of gothic, natural, and grotesque imagery, the author depicts a haunting and memorable portrayal of a world full of corruption, madness, and inevitable tragedy.