John Webster was a prominent Jacobean playwright whose works, including 'The Duchess of Malfi' and 'The White Devil', explored themes of human nature, moral corruption, and societal decay. His tragedies are celebrated for their poetic language, complex characters, and psychological depth, reflecting the tumultuous era of 17th-century England. Webster's influence extends beyond his plays to his poetry, which also delves into the transience of life and the futility of worldly ambitions.
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John Webster was born into a working-class family in London, with his father being a coach-maker and his grandfather a blacksmith
Schooling
Webster received a quality education at the Merchant Taylors' School and later studied law at the Middle Temple
Influence on Dramatic Works
Webster's legal education would later inform his dramatic works
Webster married Sara Peniall in 1605 and had children, including at least one son
Webster collaborated with Thomas Dekker on plays such as "Westward Ho!" and "Northward Ho!"
While his play "The White Devil" was initially poorly received, it, along with "The Duchess of Malfi," would later be recognized as masterpieces
Webster's plays were often staged at the Globe Theatre, a renowned venue for the era's most significant dramatic works
Webster's tragedies are noted for their exploration of dark and violent themes, often critiquing the decadence and hypocrisy of the aristocracy
Webster's plays, such as "The Duchess of Malfi," offer audiences narratives that probe deeply into character motivations and societal issues
Webster's plays are characterized by their richly poetic and metaphorical language, exemplifying his skill as a playwright
Inspired by historical events of the Italian nobility, this revenge tragedy revolves around an illicit affair and a conspiracy of murder
Another revenge tragedy, this play portrays the tragic consequences faced by a duchess who remarries against her brothers' wishes
Webster's poems, such as "Vanitas Vanitatum" and "A Monumental Column," contemplate the transient nature of life and the vanity of worldly pursuits
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John Webster's birth and death years
Born circa 1580, died unknown
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John Webster's family background
Father: coach-maker, Grandfather: blacksmith, Working-class family
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John Webster's education before Middle Temple
Attended Merchant Taylors' School
