Viola vs. Duchess of Malfi

With all the presentations on the inferiority of women in literature lately, I thought it would be interesting to revisit our earlier readings and do a comparison of two female characters many would describe as courageous, the Duchess of Malfi and Viola from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Although both women went through their share of hardships, they are by no means equal in terms of bravery.

Even though Viola seemed like she was a brave female, she was nothing compared to the Duchess of Malfi. Viola didn’t suffer because of her title. Instead, she hid from it, adorning a disguise. The Duchess did suffer. In fact, she is “exposed unto the worst of torture, pain, and fear” (2.3.55). Despite her torture, the Duchess of Malfi still declared her title saying, “I am Duchess of Malfi still” (4.2.125). Viola only admitted her true identity as a woman when she was reunited with her brother, Sebastian. She only revealed herself when she knew she was safe. Viola was not that courageous of a female character. The Duchess of Malfi was never safe and she died for her title, Viola just had to wear a fake mustache.