Describe the wooing scene in “The Duchess of Malfi”. 

Answer

Describe the wooing scene in “The Duchess of Malfi”. 

The wooing scene in Webster’s “The Duchess of Malfi” (1613-14) is a bold and clever moment. In this scene, the Duchess, who is a young widow, proposes marriage to her servant, Antonio. This scene happens in Act 1, Scene 3, right after her brothers, Ferdinand and the Cardinal, warn her never to remarry.

Hints and Marriage Proposal: After the brothers leave, the Duchess talks to Antonio. At first, the Duchess speaks in riddles and hints. She talks about her “wedding ring.” She says she will only give it to her second husband. At that moment, Antonio is in a kneeling position to help the Duchess with some paperwork. So, the Duchess hints at a marriage proposal by saying that his head is too low and she needs to raise his status.

Antonio is nervous because he is just a servant. He worries her brothers will punish them. But the Duchess reassures him, saying love is more important than fear. The Duchess also tells him that he is a “complete man” and has good character. She encourages him to accept her love. 

Secret Marriage: When Antonio still hesitates, the Duchess speaks openly and clearly. She says that she is a young widow and wants Antonio to be her husband. She also explains that royals like her have to propose because no one dares ask them to marry. She says:

“The misery of us that are born great!

We are forced to woo, because none dare woo us.”

Antonio agrees to exchange vows. The Duchess calls her maid, Cariola, to witness the vows. They kneel and promise to love each other forever. The Duchess says their marriage is legal even without a church ceremony.

Importantly, this wooing scene shows the Duchess’s courage and independence. She is a young widow, and she chooses her own love, despite her brothers’ threat. She also proves that love matters more than