"The Duchess of Malfi" is a tragic play written by John Webster in the early 17th century. It tells the story of the Duchess, a young widow who defies her brothers by secretly marrying a lower-born man, Antonio. Her brothers, Ferdinand and the Cardinal, are enraged by her actions and plot to control her life. As the play unfolds, the Duchess faces betrayal, manipulation, and violence from her brothers. The themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for autonomy are central to the narrative. Ultimately, the Duchess's tragic fate highlights the consequences of defying societal norms and familial authority.