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From your readings of Acts 1-3 (inclusive) show how Webster presents the play as set in a paternalistic world.
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| Submitted: Thu Jul 11 2002
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K. Eagan From your readings of Acts 1-3 (inclusive) show how Webster presents the play as set in a paternalistic world. In "The Duchess of Malfi", Webster seems to present the play from a paternalistic perspective. The play is dominated by two central characters, the Cardinal and Ferdinand, who represent the religious and secular powers of the corrupted court. Throughout Acts 1-3, these central characters use their power to ruin their widowed sister, the Duchess. Although the Duchess attempts to break free from her brothers' influence by marrying Antonio, their domination will destroy the Duchess' power and reputation since she has abandoned her brothers' wishes. Webster seems to portray the Duchess as a symbol of the Jacobean view of the roles of women. A widow, such as the Duchess, was considered to be an 'ungoverned woman', one who threatened the social normalities of the period. The Duchess is also portrayed in this...
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