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The Duchess Of Malfi Character Analysis

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The Difficulty of Reading and Understanding Bosola The Duchess of Malfi (originally published as The Tragedy of the Duchess of Malfy) is a play written by John Webster around 1612. It contains a variety of characters, most notably the character of Bosola. Bosola’s character is one of the more complex characters in 17th century literature. When attempting to examine Bosola, it seems that he is even more complex than meets the eye, due to the fact that he is presented both as a major protagonist, but also as a malcontent who acts as an outsider and quietly observes and comments on whatever happens in the play, pretending to stand above it. His actions in the play include treachery, murder and a change of heart, while the principles of moral and guilt are being questioned. This essay will try to examine Bosola’s character further, by shedding light on his most important actions and linking them to melancholy, one of the four humours. The melancholic traits will be explained as well. It will also try to explain how different characters react to Bosola’s actions and how they interact with each other. We first encounter Daniel de Bosola in the first Act, discussing his time in the galleys with the Cardinal, who is not impressed or anything by Bosola’s words. After that, Bosola is made manager of the horses by Ferdinand, so that Bosola is able to spy on the Duchess, and report to Ferdinand. Spying resembles a rather passive role, conform to being a malcontent. His job is to

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