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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How do Antonio and Delio decide to test the Cardinal's offer of reconciliation?

2. What position is the Cardinal resigning from?

3. What role do the pilgrims play toward the end of the scene where the Cardinal resigns his position?

4. What do the pilgrims think about what the Cardinal does to the Duchess and her family?

5. Who is the Duke of Malfi?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Why do you think the Cardinal and Ferdinand forbid the Duchess from getting married again? What were their motivations? Why do you think they refused to change their minds as the play went on?

Essay Topic 2

What function does the chorus and the lack of dialogue serve in Act 3, Scene 4 (where the Duchess, Antonio, and their children are banished, and where the Cardinal decides to become a soldier)? Describe 3 things Webster is able to convey to the audience by using this particular literary device. What other literary devices could be used to convey a similar message?

Essay Topic 3

Ferdinand gradually descends into madness as the play progresses. Describe one thing each character listed below could have done to try to prevent his madness from progressing, and specify when they might have done it.

1) Bosola

2) The Cardinal

3) The Duchess

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 352 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample