White Devil

John Webster's 'The White Devil,' written in 1612, is a Jacobean revenge tragedy that explores themes of betrayal, hypocrisy, and moral corruption. The plot centers on the Duke of Brachiano and Vittoria Corombona, who conspire to murder their spouses to be together, leading to a cycle of vengeance from those wronged. The title reflects the early modern proverb suggesting that the 'white devil'—representing deceit and hypocrisy—can be more dangerous than the 'black devil.' This play is notable for its complex characters and dark themes, characteristic of the era's dramatic literature.