My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue... Show more
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Mar 29, 2023
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Summary Revision Notes for My Last Duchess PDF - Line by Line Analysis & Themes
Page 2: Key Quotations and Comparisons
This page delves into the critical quotations from My Last Duchess and provides comparisons with other poems exploring similar themes.
Key Quotations:
- "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall" The possessive pronoun "my" is used throughout, emphasizing the Duke's view of his wife as a possession.
- "This grew; I gave commands..." The use of caesura and short phrases highlights the Duke's cold and ruthless nature.
- "Will't please you sit and look at her?" This rhetorical question is actually a command, showcasing the Duke's power and pride.
- "Since none puts by / The curtain I have drawn for you, but I" Demonstrates the Duke's control over his wife, even after her death.
- "Notice Neptune, though, taming a sea-horse" This boastful language ends the poem, further illustrating the Duke's pride.
- "As if she ranked / My gift..." Reveals the Duke's jealousy and dislike of the attention his wife received.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall" - This line introduces the possessive nature of the Duke and sets the tone for the entire poem.
Vocabulary: Caesura - A pause or break in a line of poetry, often indicated by punctuation.
The poem can be compared with others exploring similar themes:
- Power of Memory: War Photographer Kamikaze The Emigree Remains
- Human Power and Misuse of Power: Ozymandias London
Highlight: The comparisons with other poems help to contextualize "My Last Duchess" within broader literary explorations of power, memory, and human nature.
Example: Like "My Last Duchess", "Ozymandias" also explores themes of power and its transient nature, though from a different perspective.
This analysis of power and control in My Last Duchess provides valuable insights for students studying the poem, offering a detailed context of My Last Duchess and exploring its key themes. The line-by-line summary and examination of quotations make this an excellent resource for GCSE level study and beyond.
Page 1: Introduction and Context
My Last Duchess, created by Harry Westworth, provides a comprehensive analysis of Robert Browning's renowned poem. Written in 1845 but set in the 16th century, the poem presents a chilling narrative of male power and dominance through the voice of the Duke of Ferrara.
The poem's context is rooted in historical reality, based on Alfonso II, Duke of Modena and Ferrara in Italy. This connection to a real historical figure adds depth to the poem's exploration of power dynamics in Renaissance Italy.
Browning employs several structural techniques to enhance the poem's impact:
- Dramatic Monologue: This technique creates an immediate and unsettling connection between the reader and the Duke's disturbing narrative.
- Iambic Pentameter: Traditionally used in Shakespearean plays to denote high status, Browning uses this meter to highlight the Duke's obsession with reputation and social standing.
- First-Person Narrative: This contributes to the conversational style, suggesting the Duke's belief in the normalcy of his actions.
- Single Voice: The Duke's monopoly on the narrative underscores his controlling nature.
The poem explores key concepts that resonate with readers:
- Oppression of Women: It highlights the objectification and subjugation of women in 16th-century society.
- Arrogance, Pride, and Power: The Duke is characterized as entitled and obsessed with control, particularly over his wife's life.
Highlight: The poem's structural choices, particularly the use of dramatic monologue and iambic pentameter, serve to emphasize the Duke's character and the themes of power and control.
Definition: Dramatic monologue is a type of poetry written in the form of a speech of an individual character, allowing the reader to peer into the mind of the speaker.
Example: The Duke's control over the narrative, being the only voice heard, mirrors his desire for control in his relationships and social standing.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Summary Revision Notes for My Last Duchess PDF - Line by Line Analysis & Themes
My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue set in 16th-century Italy, exploring themes of power, control, and the oppression of women. The poem features the Duke of Ferrara speaking to a messenger about his previous wife, revealing... Show more
Page 2: Key Quotations and Comparisons
This page delves into the critical quotations from My Last Duchess and provides comparisons with other poems exploring similar themes.
Key Quotations:
- "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall" The possessive pronoun "my" is used throughout, emphasizing the Duke's view of his wife as a possession.
- "This grew; I gave commands..." The use of caesura and short phrases highlights the Duke's cold and ruthless nature.
- "Will't please you sit and look at her?" This rhetorical question is actually a command, showcasing the Duke's power and pride.
- "Since none puts by / The curtain I have drawn for you, but I" Demonstrates the Duke's control over his wife, even after her death.
- "Notice Neptune, though, taming a sea-horse" This boastful language ends the poem, further illustrating the Duke's pride.
- "As if she ranked / My gift..." Reveals the Duke's jealousy and dislike of the attention his wife received.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall" - This line introduces the possessive nature of the Duke and sets the tone for the entire poem.
Vocabulary: Caesura - A pause or break in a line of poetry, often indicated by punctuation.
The poem can be compared with others exploring similar themes:
- Power of Memory: War Photographer Kamikaze The Emigree Remains
- Human Power and Misuse of Power: Ozymandias London
Highlight: The comparisons with other poems help to contextualize "My Last Duchess" within broader literary explorations of power, memory, and human nature.
Example: Like "My Last Duchess", "Ozymandias" also explores themes of power and its transient nature, though from a different perspective.
This analysis of power and control in My Last Duchess provides valuable insights for students studying the poem, offering a detailed context of My Last Duchess and exploring its key themes. The line-by-line summary and examination of quotations make this an excellent resource for GCSE level study and beyond.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 1: Introduction and Context
My Last Duchess, created by Harry Westworth, provides a comprehensive analysis of Robert Browning's renowned poem. Written in 1845 but set in the 16th century, the poem presents a chilling narrative of male power and dominance through the voice of the Duke of Ferrara.
The poem's context is rooted in historical reality, based on Alfonso II, Duke of Modena and Ferrara in Italy. This connection to a real historical figure adds depth to the poem's exploration of power dynamics in Renaissance Italy.
Browning employs several structural techniques to enhance the poem's impact:
- Dramatic Monologue: This technique creates an immediate and unsettling connection between the reader and the Duke's disturbing narrative.
- Iambic Pentameter: Traditionally used in Shakespearean plays to denote high status, Browning uses this meter to highlight the Duke's obsession with reputation and social standing.
- First-Person Narrative: This contributes to the conversational style, suggesting the Duke's belief in the normalcy of his actions.
- Single Voice: The Duke's monopoly on the narrative underscores his controlling nature.
The poem explores key concepts that resonate with readers:
- Oppression of Women: It highlights the objectification and subjugation of women in 16th-century society.
- Arrogance, Pride, and Power: The Duke is characterized as entitled and obsessed with control, particularly over his wife's life.
Highlight: The poem's structural choices, particularly the use of dramatic monologue and iambic pentameter, serve to emphasize the Duke's character and the themes of power and control.
Definition: Dramatic monologue is a type of poetry written in the form of a speech of an individual character, allowing the reader to peer into the mind of the speaker.
Example: The Duke's control over the narrative, being the only voice heard, mirrors his desire for control in his relationships and social standing.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user