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DUCHESS OF MALFI

DUCHESS OF MALFI. BOSOLA. Purpose of the Character. He is an objective or quasi-objective voice that comments on the concerns of the play and comments as though he is somehow above or beyond them Driving force behind the play

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DUCHESS OF MALFI

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  1. DUCHESS OF MALFI BOSOLA

  2. Purpose of the Character • He is an objective or quasi-objective voice that comments on the concerns of the play and comments as though he is somehow above or beyond them • Driving force behind the play • He is the character who appeals to the working class in the audience who go to plays to see a blood-bath as entertainment. Webster also enjoys a pun on his name as 'Bos' can mean a protuberance on the body, or be slang for masterfulness. • He provides a great comedy element to the play, even though he is actually disgustingly unpleasant. • He has the independence to roam among all strata of society and support all sides at once.

  3. Actions in the Play • He is employed by Ferdinand to spy on the Duchess in hopes of keeping her away from marriage. He is involved in the murder of the Duchess, her children, Cariola, Antonio, the Cardinal and Ferdinand, and a servant. • Upon witnessing the nobility and fearlessness of the Duchess and Antonio facing their deaths, he then experiences guilt. Though he was the one who arranged her death, he then seeks to avenge it. • Even though he plays the faithful henchmen in murdering for the brothers, neither of them shows any gratitude. • He accidentally kills Antonio and the extent of his self-remorse is heightened. • He effectively ends the play with the murders of Ferdinand and the Cardinal. • His last words before he dies speaks of the morals and themes of the play:

  4. Change in Character • Bosola can be considered the most complex character in the play since he goes from being a killer without regret, and then changes and is filled with regret. • His opinions and principles change throughout, therefore constantly altering the audience's feelings about him. He is the only character to communicate to the audience via soliloquy, divulging his true thoughts and intentions which often differ from his outward appearance, making him psychologically realistic and interesting. • After the murder of the Duchess, his view on morality, nobility and honour are changed, and he sees the errors of his ways. • This leads him to avenge Antonio and the Duchess; not for personal gain, but to restore justice.

  5. Language Style • Being the malcontent of the play, he tends to view things cynically, and makes numerous critical comments on the nature of Renaissance society. He is frequently characterized by his melancholy. • He has many “asides” to the audience during the play; he is the “know all” character who informs the audience of all that is taking place.

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