Duchess of Malfi Context Flashcards
What did Hippocrates think about the womb?
It caused hysteria because it was a free moving organ- caused mental illness (Ferdinand making her mad).
What did people want more of during the Jacobean period?
More extreme violence, characters manipulating and committing crimes.
What was Webster thought to be a member of?
English court- reinforced by his pessimistic outlook on its corruption.
Define the Chain of Being?
God set social hierarchy, changing it would usurp his power, Satan & Eve do it, Duch and Antonio do it.
What two quotes link PL and DoM?
“How greedily she eats them.” And “greedily she engorged without restraint.”
What is Puritanism?
belief Church needed purifying of catholicism. Milton was Puritan- Cardinal negative- adds to abuse of catholic church 17th C.
What is the Machiavellian?
Calculating villain trope of Jacobean tragedy, cardinal- clever, evil & charming.
Who was Catherine Brandon?
Noblewoman, married below her and exiled from England.
What is an omen (and example)?
prediction of bad things, Antonio’s nosebleed. Horoscope predicting future.
Why is the play set in Italy?
So Webster could explore politically unacceptable ideas, dangerous if set here.
What is the name of the Duchess this is based on?
Giovanna d’Aragona.
What character type is the Cardinal?
Machiavellian politician.
