The Duchess of Malfi, The White Devil, The Broken Heart and Tis Pity She’s a Whore by John Webster and John Ford (Penguin Classics)

Description

“The Duchess of Malfi,” “The White Devil,” “The Broken Heart,” and “Tis Pity She’s a Whore” are all English Renaissance plays written by John Webster and John Ford. These works are notable for their dark themes, intricate characters, and their contributions to the genre of Jacobean drama.

1. “The Duchess of Malfi” (1612) by John Webster:
– “The Duchess of Malfi” is one of John Webster’s most famous works. It’s a tragic play that tells the story of the Duchess of Malfi, who secretly marries her steward and faces the wrath of her brothers, leading to a series of tragic events.

2. “The White Devil” (1612) by John Webster:
– “The White Devil” is another of Webster’s tragedies. It explores themes of revenge, corruption, and moral decay. The play is loosely based on real historical events and characters.

3. “The Broken Heart” (1629) by John Ford:
– “The Broken Heart” is a tragedy by John Ford, known for its exploration of themes related to love and revenge. It tells the story of a marriage disrupted by political intrigue and deception.

4. “Tis Pity She’s a Whore” (c. 1620) by John Ford:
– “Tis Pity She’s a Whore” is a controversial and daring play by John Ford. It explores the taboo subject of incest and forbidden love between a brother and sister, leading to tragic consequences.

These plays are representative of the darker and more intense aspects of Jacobean drama, which was characterized by its fascination with themes of corruption, power, and the consequences of human flaws. They are still studied and performed today for their complex characters and exploration of the darker side of human nature.