The white devil

Definition

The term 'the white devil' often refers to the character of Duke Vitellozzo Vitelli in John Webster's tragedy, which highlights themes of deception, ambition, and moral corruption. This character embodies the darker aspects of human nature and serves as a critique of societal values during the Jacobean era, reflecting the anxieties and fears of the time. The portrayal of such morally ambiguous characters connects to Shakespeare's contemporaries, who similarly explored themes of villainy and ethical complexity in their works.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'The White Devil' was first performed in 1612 and is noted for its intense exploration of revenge and moral decay.
2. John Webster, the playwright, was a contemporary of Shakespeare and shared similar themes of darkness and treachery in his works.
3. The character Vitelli is often seen as a reflection of the political machinations and court intrigues that were prevalent during the early 17th century.
4. Webster’s play contrasts with Shakespeare’s approach by delving deeper into nihilism and presenting a more cynical view of human nature.
5. The themes found in 'The White Devil' influenced subsequent playwrights and contributed to the evolution of tragic narratives in English literature.

Review Questions

• How does the character Vitellozzo Vitelli in 'The White Devil' compare to similar characters in Shakespeare's plays?
  • Vitellozzo Vitelli exemplifies the traits of ambition and moral corruption that can also be seen in characters like Macbeth and Iago from Shakespeare's works. Both Vitelli and these Shakespearean characters engage in manipulation and deceit for personal gain, showcasing a common theme among Jacobean playwrights. Their actions reflect broader societal issues concerning power dynamics and ethical dilemmas, allowing for rich comparisons between their motivations and consequences.
• Discuss the significance of moral corruption as depicted in 'The White Devil' and its relation to contemporary societal values.
  • 'The White Devil' illustrates moral corruption through its characters’ actions, reflecting the anxieties present in Jacobean society about political intrigue and personal ambition. This portrayal invites audiences to question their values and the integrity of those in power. Such themes resonate with Shakespeare's exploration of similar ideas, suggesting that both playwrights aimed to critique the ethical landscape of their time while revealing the consequences of unchecked ambition.
• Evaluate how 'The White Devil' serves as a commentary on the political environment of its time compared to Shakespeare's works.
  • 'The White Devil' provides a dark lens on the political machinations of the early 17th century, emphasizing betrayal and moral decay. This commentary contrasts with Shakespeare’s sometimes more hopeful narratives but still shares common ground regarding the exploration of power dynamics. Both works serve as reflections on their society's complexities, highlighting how ambition can corrupt individuals and lead to tragic outcomes. The critical examination of these themes reveals how playwrights used their narratives to engage with contemporary issues and provoke thought among audiences about morality and leadership.

Related terms

Jacobean drama: A style of English drama that flourished during the reign of King James I, characterized by complex characters, dark themes, and moral ambiguity.

tragedy: A dramatic genre that presents serious themes, often involving a noble protagonist whose downfall is brought about by a tragic flaw or circumstance.

moral corruption: The deterioration of ethical standards and principles, often leading to deceitful behavior and societal decay, commonly explored in literature.