Malfi interpretations/critics

1 (exposition, men, values, Antonio)

Belton suggests that ‘Antonio is a man who loves virtue’

2 (inciting incident, women, sexuality)

Pacheco suggests Webster presents his female characters as ensnared in a world where the ‘patriarchal mindset is predisposed to see women in terms of the binary oppositions of whore and angels.’

• whilst Antonio’s monologue suggests his adoration of the Duchess, perhaps it also idealises her as a ‘Madonna’ figure, a limiting role which might contribute to her entrapment in a patriarchal society

3 (inciting incident, desire, women, sexuality)

it has been suggested of the Duchess that ‘her marriage is depicted as wilful, wanton and irresponsible’

4 (inciting incident, desire, women, sexuality)

Lee Bliss argues that the Duchess is ‘unconcerned with her duchy’s political health, seeking private happiness at the expense of public stability. As a ruler, she can be no more lauded (highly praised or admired) for the example she sets than he brothers’

• Webster challenges this view, establishes a repressive and foreboding atmosphere that makes it clear Malfi is ‘poison[ed] near the head’ - her presence is a relief from such evil, her genuine love and desire

• her ‘private happiness’ could contribute to ‘public stability’ rather than being destructive - when she commands Antonio to ‘raise yourself’ imagery of equality implies her wisdom in recognising his merit of her own accord, despite her wealth and that she was considered the superior nationality (Spanish who owned the land of Italy before it’s unification)

5 (inciting incident, desire, women, sexuality)

Pacheco suggests that ‘the Duchess speaks of her own sexuality with admirable common sense. This is refreshing, not only after the brothers’ misogyny, but also after Antonio’s desexualised portrait of her.’

6 (inciting incident, men, desire)

it has been suggested of Antonio that he ‘has been made to stand still and tremble - he is dull, passive and weak.’

7 (denouement, family, hope for the future, love, Antonio+ Duchess+ son)

‘Though the play is mostly overwrought with evil, it does end on a hopeful note. The son, a symbol of hope, is a testament to [the Duchess and Antonio’s] love.’