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The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street - A Literary and Historical Enigma

Ernesto Sabato

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Published in The Puritan: The Widow Of Watling Street

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In the annals of Jacobean drama, John Webster's 'The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street' stands as a captivating and enigmatic masterpiece. First performed in 1607, the play delves into the complexities of Puritan society in early 17th century London, exposing its hypocrisy, moral ambiguities, and the lurking shadows of witchcraft.

The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street

by Thomas Middleton

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	204 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	109 pages

An Intricate Plotline

The Puritan revolves around the character of Mistress Frankford, a wealthy widow who publicly embraces Puritan values but secretly indulges in illicit affairs. By day, she portrays herself as a model of piety, but by night, she surrenders to the temptations of the flesh with Sir Godfrey Pexall, a libertine who exploits her vulnerability.

As Frankford's double life unravels, the Puritan community becomes a breeding ground for suspicion, intrigue, and moral turmoil. Characters such as the rigid Puritan, Sir John Spendall, and the opportunistic lawyer, Sir Giles Overreach, personify the hypocrisy and corruption that plague the society. The play culminates in a series of shocking revelations and a tragic denouement that leaves the audience both horrified and intrigued.

Complex Characters and Moral Ambiguities

Webster's characters are not simply one-dimensional archetypes, but rather complex individuals with their own motivations and flaws. Mistress Frankford, for example, is not merely an adulteress, but a victim of male domination and societal expectations. Her desire for love and fulfillment clashes with the rigid moral code imposed upon her.

The play exposes the moral ambiguities that permeate Puritan society. Characters justify their actions based on their own interpretations of religious doctrine, leading to a slippery slope of self-righteousness and deceit. The boundaries between good and evil blur as individuals grapple with their own inner conflicts.

The Influence of Puritanism

The Puritan was written at a time when Puritanism was gaining significant influence in England. Puritanism, a Protestant movement that emphasized strict adherence to religious principles, had a profound impact on the social and political landscape of the 17th century.

Webster's play satirizes the excesses of Puritanism and exposes the hypocrisy that often lurked beneath the surface. The play's portrayal of a society obsessed with outward piety while engaging in clandestine sins resonated with audiences who witnessed the rise of Puritanism firsthand.

Themes of Witchcraft and the Supernatural

Amidst the social commentary, The Puritan also incorporates elements of witchcraft and the supernatural. The character of Alice, an old woman accused of witchcraft, represents the fears and superstitions that haunted early modern society.

Webster uses witchcraft as a metaphor for the hidden sins and desires that lurk beneath the veneer of respectability. The play explores the irrationality of witch hunts and challenges the blind faith that can lead to persecution and injustice.

Literary Significance and Influence

The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street has been hailed as one of the finest examples of Jacobean drama. It is known for its intricate plot, complex characters, and incisive social satire. The play's realistic portrayal of 17th century London and its exploration of Puritan society make it a valuable historical document as well.

The Puritan has had a significant influence on subsequent generations of playwrights and writers. Its themes of hypocrisy, moral ambiguity, and social injustice continue to resonate with audiences today.

John Webster's 'The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street' is a timeless masterpiece that offers a captivating glimpse into the complexities of Puritan society and the human condition. Through its intricate plot, complex characters, and enduring themes, the play exposes the hypocrisy, moral ambiguities, and lurking shadows that have haunted humanity for centuries.

The play stands as a testament to Webster's literary genius and his ability to craft stories that both entertain and provoke thought. Through its enduring relevance, The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street continues to resonate with audiences centuries after its first performance, inviting us to question our own beliefs, values, and the hidden desires that lie within us.

The Puritan: The Widow of Watling Street

by Thomas Middleton

5 out of 5