Why is ‘The Dutches of Mulfi’ called a decadent play?

"The Duchess of Malfi" is a play written by John Webster in the early 17th century. It is considered a "decadent" play because it portrays a world in which corruption, violence, and moral decay are pervasive.

 

The play tells the story of a young widow, the Duchess of Malfi, who defies the wishes of her brothers and marries her steward, Antonio. The Duchess and Antonio are eventually discovered and punished by her brothers, who have become corrupt and greedy. The play is known for its themes of betrayal, revenge, and the abuse of power.

 

One of the reasons "The Duchess of Malfi" is considered a decadent play is because it portrays a society in which moral decay is rampant. The characters in the play are all corrupt in some way, and they engage in violent and immoral behavior without remorse. For example, the Duchess's brothers are willing to murder their own sister in order to maintain their power and wealth. The play also depicts characters who are consumed by their own lust, greed, and ambition.

 

Another reason the play is considered decadent is because it contains graphic depictions of violence and death. The play features several gruesome scenes, including the murder of the Duchess and her children, as well as the torture of her servant, Bosola. These scenes are often described in graphic detail, and they serve to highlight the brutality and senselessness of the characters' actions.

 

In addition, the play contains elements of the macabre and the supernatural. The character of the Cardinal, for example, is depicted as a sinister figure with a penchant for dark magic and witchcraft. This adds to the overall sense of moral decay and corruption in the play.

 

Finally, "The Duchess of Malfi" is considered a decadent play because it challenges the social and political norms of the time. The play was written during the Jacobean era, a time of great political and social upheaval in England. Webster uses the play to critique the corrupt political and social systems of his time, and to argue for a more just and equitable society.

 

In conclusion, "The Duchess of Malfi" is considered a decadent play because it portrays a world in which corruption, violence, and moral decay are pervasive. The play challenges the social and political norms of its time and critiques the corrupt systems that allow such decadence to thrive. Its themes of betrayal, revenge, and the abuse of power continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless classic of English literature.