We've listed some well-known quotes from Webster's most famous revenge tragedy, The Duchess of Malfi.
If't chance
Some curs'd example poison't near the head,
Death and disease through the whole land spread.
(Antonio, Act 1 Scene 1)
He and his brother are like plum-trees that grow crooked over standing-pools; they are rich, and o'erladen with fruit, but none but crows, pies and caterpillars feed on them.
(Bosola, Act 1 Scene 1)
Sometimes the Devil doth preach.
(Bosola, Act 1 Scene 2)
The Duchess: Diamonds are of most value,
They say, that have pass'd through most jewellers' hands.
Ferdinand: Whores, by that rule, are precious.
(Act 1 Scene 3)
Ambition, madam, is a great man's madness.
(Antonio, Act 1 Scene 3)
The misery of us that are born great!
We are forc'd to woo, because none dare woo us.
(The Duchess, Act 1 Scene 3)
I account this world a tedious theatre,
For I do play a part in't 'gainst my will.
(The Duchess, Act 4 Scene 1)
I am Duchess of Malfi still.
(The Duchess, Act 4 Scene 2)
Cover her face. Mine eyes dazzle. She died young.
(Ferdinand, Act 4 Scene 2)
She and I were twins;
And should I die this instant, I had liv'd
Her time to a minute.
(Ferdinand, Act 4 Scene 2)
I'll join with thee in a most just revenge:
The weakest arm is strong enough that strikes
With the sword of justice.
(Bosola, Act 5 Scene 2)
Whether we fall by ambition, blood or lust,
Like diamonds we are cut with our own dust.
(Ferdinand, Act 5 Scene 5)