The White Devil

by

John Webster

Hortensio Character Analysis

The only named character not included in the character list, Hortensio enters the play in Act V. He appears to be one of Flamineo’s closest friends, and he often acts as Flamineo’s confidante when it comes to matters of the heart (particularly Zanche). However, despite trying to spy on behalf of Flamineo, he never follows through with bringing any of the information he learns to his friend.
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Hortensio Character Timeline in The White Devil

The timeline below shows where the character Hortensio appears in The White Devil. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Act 5, Scene 1
External Virtue vs. Internal Truth Theme Icon
Class and Corruption Theme Icon
Now at the court in Padua, Flamineo confers with his friend Hortensio. Brachiano and Vittoria have gotten married and are holding court in Padua. An impressive young... (full context)
External Virtue vs. Internal Truth Theme Icon
Double Standards of Desire Theme Icon
...Francisco-as-Mulinassar discuss the difficulty of making a living as a soldier. Flamineo then complains to Hortensio that he had promised Zanche he would marry her; he no longer wishes to do... (full context)
Act 5, Scene 5
Leading by Example vs. Leading by Force Theme Icon
Punishment and Repentance  Theme Icon
...agrees, promising to redeem Lodovico’s reputation (“[I] shall in the ashes keep alive thy name”). Hortensio, Flamineo’s friend, overhears some of this, and he decides to inform those in town of... (full context)