A widowed Duchess defies the rigid social expectations of her time by marrying her steward, triggering a campaign of psychological and physical torment orchestrated by her vengeful brothers. The protagonist seeks personal autonomy and domestic happiness within a corrupt Italian court, but she faces the relentless opposition of her brothers, Ferdinand and the Cardinal, who view her actions as a stain on their family honor. The narrative unfolds through a series of escalating confrontations, utilizing the conventions of Jacobean revenge tragedy to explore themes of power, corruption, and mortality. The play is structured as a five-act drama, moving from the initial secret marriage toward a violent and inevitable conclusion.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the play's intense atmosphere and the visceral nature of its violence. Discussion often centers on the Duchess as a figure of resilience against a patriarchal system that seeks to control her body and agency. Scholars often examine the contrast between the Duchess's private virtue and the public depravity of the court surrounding her. The pacing is noted for its rapid escalation, moving from a clandestine romance to a series of gruesome encounters that define the Jacobean era. Many find the play's exploration of madness and existential dread to be particularly effective in maintaining engagement throughout the five acts.