"Held in durance vile" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the state of being confined, imprisoned, or held against one's will. The phrase is often used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone is trapped or held captive, figuratively imprisoned within a particular circumstance or environment.
The term "held" implies that the person is being physically restrained, either by actual physical force or by the power or authority of another. "Durance" is an archaic word meaning imprisonment or captivity, often associated with being held in a dungeon or a place of confinement. "Vile" in this context indicates that the conditions of the imprisonment are harsh, unpleasant, or morally repugnant.
When used metaphorically, the phrase suggests a lack of freedom or agency in a particular situation, where one is unable to escape or break free from the constraints that bind them. Whether describing physical imprisonment or a metaphorical captivity, being "held in durance vile" conveys a sense of helplessness, frustration, and a desire for liberation.
Overall, the term "held in durance vile" paints a vivid picture of someone being forcibly detained, emotionally encumbered, or restrained by circumstances beyond their control, thereby encapsulating a state of confinement, imprisonment, and limited freedom.
