The White Devil

Name: The White Devil
Author: John Webster

By John Webster

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About This Book

A dark revenge tragedy centers on a woman whose marriages and public reputation become the focus of lust, jealousy, and political scheming. Courtiers, relatives, and clerics manufacture accusations, bribe witnesses, and stage conspiracies that lead to murder, trials, and spectacular retribution. The action alternates between intimate scenes of betrayal and noisy public hearings, using disguises, forged proofs, and theatrical artifices to expose moral corruption. Themes include the fragility of honor, manipulation of justice, gendered attacks on reputation, and the violent fallout of ambition and envy.

About the Author

John Webster

John Webster was a prominent English playwright of the early 17th century, best known for his dark and complex tragedies. His most famous works include "The Duchess of Malfi," a tale of love, betrayal, and revenge set against a backdrop of political intrigue, and "The White Devil," which explores themes of corruption and moral decay. Webster's writing is characterized by its rich language and psychological depth, often delving into the darker aspects of human nature. His contributions to the genre of Jacobean drama have solidified his place in the literary heritage of England, making him a significant figure in the study of early modern theatre.