Summary:
Analyzes the character of Bosola from 'The Duchess of Malfi' by John Webster. Debates if Bosola is an entirely convincing character or merely a tool in Webster's structuring of the plot. Describes Bosola's dramatic function in the play?
Bosola can be described as a convincing character as unlike some of the characters in the play, his opinions and principles change throughout, therefore constantly altering the audience's feelings about him. He is the only character to communicate to the audience via soliloquy, divulging his true thoughts and intentions which often differ from his outward appearance, making him psychologically realistic and interesting. Although this would suggest he is a convincing character, Bosola, at times, falls into set roles of the Jacobean Tragedy; malcontent, satirist and avenger. Webster uses Bosola to fulfill these conventions of the genre and to direct and drive the plot, especially after the Duchess' death. Even though Webster uses Bosola in this way, he is more than a mere tool as his character extends beyond the established roles of the genre, giving a.....
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