English Study Buddy

A. Either:
“Webster uses physical horrors for highly effective dramatic purposes.” Consider this statement, making full illustration from the play to support your answer.
Or:
Trace the actions of Ferdinand through the play, showing how shrewdly Webster portrays his developing madness.

B. Look at the dialogue between the Cardinal and Ferdinand in Act 2, Scene 5. What do you think is the dramatic impact of this scene?  You may, if you wish, consider:

• The imagery
• The relationship between Ferdinand and the Cardinal
• The theme of womanhood.

C. The Duchess is described variously as ‘right noble’, a ‘lusty widow’ and a ‘notorious strumpet’.  Do you think that these contrasting opinions can be reconciled in the play as a whole?

D. “In Webster’s world there are no heroes.”  Discuss.

E. Would you wish to defend Webster against the charge of theatrical sensationalism?

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