The White Devil

“The violent thunder is adored by those

Are pashed in pieces by it.”

Now that he is banished, Lodovico is free to criticize the people of Rome, and he believes that those that have cast their moral judgement on him are little more than hypocrites. They adore the “violent thunder” (11) of immorality, even as they are in danger of being broken apart by it. In his criticism, Lodovico hints at the dangers of hypocrisy, as society will not be able to avert a crisis that remains unrecognized. Instead, they will bring about their own downfall.

“Women are more willingly and more gloriously

chaste when they are least restrained of their liberty.”

Flaminio’s conversation with Camillo shows his talent for manipulation. Having orchestrated an affair between Bracciano and Camillo’s wife, Vittoria, Flamino slyly flatters Camillo with lies about Vittoria’s chastity. By leaving Vittoria alone, Flaminio suggests, Camillo will make Vittoria desire him even more. In reality, however, Camillo’s absence will allow the cheating couple to consummate their affair at Camillo’s expense. Flaminio does not just lie to Camillo in this scene; instead, he presents a more flattering version of reality that Camillo is all too ready to believe.