Felton and Milady: Destructive Infatuation

The intense and tragic relationship between the Puritan officer John Felton and Milady, which leads to his moral downfall and Buckingham's assassination.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The First Encounter

A Stern Jailer The Assignment Lord de Winter places Milady under the guard of John Felton, a devout Puritan officer. Felton is initially cold and unyielding, immune to her charms. He sees her as a prisoner and a sinner. The First Cracks Milady feigns illness and piety, singing psalms and praying. Felton begins to see her as a fellow believer. His sternness softens, and he starts to doubt Lord de Winter's accusations. A Seed of Doubt Milady's performance plants the first seeds of doubt in Felton's mind. He begins to see her as a victim rather than a criminal. This is the beginning of his manipulation.

The False Confession

A Fabricated Tale The Story Milady tells Felton a detailed story of how Buckingham seduced and branded her. She claims to be a victim of his lust and cruelty. Felton, who already hates Buckingham, is moved to pity and anger. The Transformation Felton's pity turns to love. He sees Milady as a martyr and himself as her potential savior. He agrees to help her escape and to kill Buckingham as an act of divine justice. The Seduction Complete Milady has completely ensnared Felton. He is now willing to sacrifice his honor, his life, and his soul for her. His infatuation blinds him to her true nature.

The Assassination and Aftermath

A Fanatic's Deed The Murder Felton stabs Buckingham in Portsmouth. He is captured immediately. When he realizes that Milady has abandoned him, he is devastated but remains defiant. The Realization Felton finally understands that he was used. Milady never loved him; she only used him as a tool. His infatuation has led him to commit murder and to face execution. A Tragic End Felton's story is a tragedy of manipulation. His religious fervor and his love for Milady are exploited for her purposes. He dies a murderer, but he is also a victim. His fate illustrates the destructive power of blind devotion.

during Milady's captivity

during the captivity

23 August 1628