France

Antonio had been in France prior to the beginning act. He was impressed with the righteousness of the French court.

Malfi, Italy

The play takes place in Malfi, Italy, at the Duchess’s palace.

Laban’s Sheep

Laban’s sheep are mentioned in Act 1 Scene 3. Ferdinand compares the spots in Laban’s sheep to the livers of suitors. Laban’s spotted sheep are a reference from Genesis, Chapter 30.

The Poniard

Ferdinand showed his father’s poniard to the Duchess in Act 1. Later, he gave the knife to the Duchess when he visited her in Act 3, Scene 2. He ordered her to use it on herself to commit suicide.

Ancona

The Duchess tells Antonio to flee there in Act 3, Scene 2. She will pay for a house there for him.

Bermoothes

Bosola states that he would rather swim to Bermoothes, than to not know Antonio’s honesty. Bermoothes is...