Corruption Flashcards
(8 cards)
“This foul melancholy will poison all his goodness.”
A1S1 Antonio about Bosola’s perspective on the world — he could be happy, and deserves better, but will never be happy due to his pessimism and hatred
“Sometimes the devil doth preach.”
A1S1 Bosola is tempted and convinced to spy on the Duchess (despite being used by the Cardinal previously). Bosola kind of has no choice if he wants any hope of class movement.
“Ambition, madam, is a great man’s madness.”
A1S1 Antonio acknowledges the problems associated with marrying the Duchess, and cautions himself against the dangers of become addicted to ambition.
“Traitors are ever confident till they are discovered.”
A2S3 Antonio says this to Bosola and is just an easy summary for the events of their confrontation in the dark in A2S3, Antonio is noble and ignorant while Bosola is deceptive and knowledgeable
“An honest statesman to a prince is like a cedar planted by a spring.”
A3S2 Bosola uses these vast compliments of Antonio/Duchess to gain her trust and manipulate her into being honest — also reflects the plant imagery Antonio used in A1S1
“Since they were born accurst, curses shall be their first language.”
A3S5 in moments of despair and pessimism, the Duchess seems to reject religion for her own children as she understands the fate they were born into. She is assertive in this assessment and is never swayed by Bosola’s attempts and consolation.
“Other sins only speak; murder shrieks out.”
A4S2 Bosola’s clear regret for the deaths he feels guilty for, and knows forgiveness is out of reach for those who commit the highest sin.
“When we know black deeds must be cured with death.”
A5S4 Bosola highlights his current conclusion/plan — the cycle of death must continue until the brothers are punished for their corruption
