The Faerie Queene · English Literature

Which character in Book I represents the 'False Church' and is stripped to reveal her true, withered, and foul form?

  1. Duessa
  2. Lucifera
  3. Fidessa
  4. Celia
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Correct answer: Duessa

Duessa, appearing as a beautiful woman, is eventually stripped by Arthur and Una, revealing her true physical hideousness. This allegorically mirrors the Protestant critique of the hidden corruption within the Catholic Church.

Difficulty: Medium Question 14 of 20

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