Stuff that happens in the play
- Sebastian returns home from war to find his betrothed, Isabella, married to another man, Antonio.
- Gaspero, Antonio’s servant, comforts Florida, his master’s courtesan, as she weeps over her lover’s marriage.
- Almachildes, a fantastical gentleman, tries to seduce Amoretta, the Duchess’s woman. When he fails, he vows to get a potion from the witches to make Amoretta “fall backwards.”
- At Isabella and Antonio’s wedding banquet, the Duke of Ravenna makes a strange toast with a cup made from his father-in-law’s skull.
- Francisca, Antonio’s sister, fears the drink will expose her concealed pregnancy.
- Sebastian and, later, Almachildes visit Hecate, the witch, to ask her for charms to help them resolve their plights.
- The following morning, Antonio, not feeling well, asks Gaspero for medicine. Hecate’s charm has taken hold.
- Francisca elaborates on her condition, and the baby’s father, Abberzanes, arrives bearing gifts and a plan.
- Almachildes uses the love charm on Amoretta.
- Francisca gives birth and returns to her brother’s house.
- Bed tricks, schemes, revenge, poisonings, and incantations ensue.
