Previous
Mood
Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Act 2, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Wolves:
The motif of the wolf is used throughout the play and therefore accumulates multiple meanings and applications to the unfolding story. Initially, Bosola uses a simile that includes a wolf, but his statement hinges on an important double-meaning of the word. After his conversation with Castruccio in Act 2, Scene 1 is interrupted, Bosola turns on the perpetrator: a bewildered old woman. His rage is inexplicable, although the audience understands that he has a growing feeling of unease over the Duchess and is venting his frustration on anyone available to him. He says:
But in our own flesh, though we bear diseases
Which have their true names on ta’en from beasts,
As the most ulcerous wolf and swinish measle
Act 3, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Wolves:
The motif of the wolf is used throughout the play and therefore accumulates multiple meanings and applications to the unfolding story. Initially, Bosola uses a simile that includes a wolf, but his statement hinges on an important double-meaning of the word. After his conversation with Castruccio in Act 2, Scene 1 is interrupted, Bosola turns on the perpetrator: a bewildered old woman. His rage is inexplicable, although the audience understands that he has a growing feeling of unease over the Duchess and is venting his frustration on anyone available to him. He says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+But in our own flesh, though we bear diseases
Which have their true names on ta’en from beasts,
As the most ulcerous wolf and swinish measle
Act 5, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Wolves:
The motif of the wolf is used throughout the play and therefore accumulates multiple meanings and applications to the unfolding story. Initially, Bosola uses a simile that includes a wolf, but his statement hinges on an important double-meaning of the word. After his conversation with Castruccio in Act 2, Scene 1 is interrupted, Bosola turns on the perpetrator: a bewildered old woman. His rage is inexplicable, although the audience understands that he has a growing feeling of unease over the Duchess and is venting his frustration on anyone available to him. He says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+But in our own flesh, though we bear diseases
Which have their true names on ta’en from beasts,
As the most ulcerous wolf and swinish measle
