Palace

The play opens at the Duchess of Malfi’s palace in Malfi. Servant Antonio and friend Delio discuss Antonio’s trip to France and the courtiers who are passing by the chamber.

In Act 2, the play continues at the Duchess’s palace several months later as the Duchess is pregnant but does not want anyone to know, especially her brothers.

The Cardinal's home

In Act 2, Scene 4, the play is set in the Cardinal’s place, where his mistress Julia visits. Later, in Act 2, Scene 5, the setting is in Rome at Ferdinand’s place.

Palace

In Act 3, the play focuses on the Duchess in her palace a few years later. She has three children now with her unidentified husband Antonio.

Ancona

The Duchess plans to reunite with Antonio in Ancona after she falsely accuses him of stealing from her. Cariola suggests that the Duchess visit the baths of Lucca...