Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess" is a chilling dramatic monologue... Show more
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11
0
Grace
2/16/2023
English Literature
My Last Dutchess annotations
505
•
Feb 16, 2023
•
Dramatic Monologue Analysis of My Last Duchess for Kids - Line by Line Fun!
Grace
@gracehatesyouu
Page 2: Escalation and Conclusion
As the dramatic monologue continues, the Duke's controlling nature and sinister intentions become increasingly clear. He expresses frustration with the Duchess's tendency to thank and smile at everyone equally, regardless of their status or the value of their gifts.
The Duke's pride in his "nine-hundred-years-old name" reveals his obsession with status and power. He sees his aristocratic lineage as his most valuable attribute and is offended that the Duchess doesn't seem to prioritize it above all else.
Quote: "Who'd stoop to blame / This sort of trifling? Even had you skill / In speech - (which I have not) - to make your will / Quite clear to such an one..."
The Duke's inability to communicate his displeasure to the Duchess is telling. He considers it beneath him to "stoop" to explaining his feelings or correcting her behavior. This reveals his expectation of complete obedience without the need for explanation.
Highlight: The line "I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together" is a chilling euphemism suggesting the Duchess's death, possibly at the Duke's order.
The poem concludes with the Duke smoothly transitioning to discuss dowry arrangements for his next marriage, indicating that he sees women as interchangeable possessions. He then points out a bronze statue of Neptune taming a sea-horse, which serves as a metaphor for his desire to control and dominate.
Analysis: The dramatic monologue structure allows Browning to reveal the Duke's true nature through his own words, creating a powerful critique of power, class, and misogyny.
The poem's use of rhyming couplets and enjambment creates a conversational tone that belies the sinister content. This technique enhances the unsettling effect of the Duke's casual attitude towards his wife's fate.
Definition: Enjambment - The continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line of poetry to the next without a pause.
This line-by-line analysis of "My Last Duchess" reveals Browning's masterful use of dramatic monologue to explore themes of control, possession, and the abuse of power, making it a classic example of Victorian poetry's psychological depth.
Page 1: Introduction and Opening Lines
The poem "My Last Duchess" by Robert Browning is set in Renaissance Italy, specifically in Ferrara. It is structured as a dramatic monologue, a long speech from one character's perspective, which allows readers to delve into the Duke's possessive and controlling mindset.
The Duke begins by showing a visitor a portrait of his late wife, referring to her as "my last Duchess." This immediately establishes his sense of ownership over her, even after her death. He praises the painting's lifelike quality and mentions the artist, Fra Pandolf, by name.
Highlight: The Duke's use of possessive language and his control over who sees the painting reveal his domineering nature.
The Duke describes how people react to the portrait, noting the "depth and passion of its earnest glance." He seems to take pride in his ability to control access to the painting, drawing back the curtain for his guest.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
As the monologue progresses, the Duke's sinister undertones become more apparent. He reveals his displeasure at the Duchess's behavior, particularly her tendency to be "easily impressed" and her willingness to smile at everyone.
Vocabulary: Euphemism - A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
The Duke's jealousy and need for control are evident in his description of the Duchess's reactions to simple pleasures, such as sunset or cherries. His language suggests that he viewed her joy as a threat to his authority.
Example: The Duke's irritation at the Duchess's delight in a "bough of cherries" brought by an "officious fool" demonstrates his irrational jealousy.
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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
Dramatic Monologue Analysis of My Last Duchess for Kids - Line by Line Fun!
Grace
@gracehatesyouu
Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess" is a chilling dramatic monologue analysis of My Last Duchess that explores themes of power, jealousy, and control through the voice of a possessive Duke. The poem reveals:
- The Duke's obsession with controlling his late... Show more
Page 2: Escalation and Conclusion
As the dramatic monologue continues, the Duke's controlling nature and sinister intentions become increasingly clear. He expresses frustration with the Duchess's tendency to thank and smile at everyone equally, regardless of their status or the value of their gifts.
The Duke's pride in his "nine-hundred-years-old name" reveals his obsession with status and power. He sees his aristocratic lineage as his most valuable attribute and is offended that the Duchess doesn't seem to prioritize it above all else.
Quote: "Who'd stoop to blame / This sort of trifling? Even had you skill / In speech - (which I have not) - to make your will / Quite clear to such an one..."
The Duke's inability to communicate his displeasure to the Duchess is telling. He considers it beneath him to "stoop" to explaining his feelings or correcting her behavior. This reveals his expectation of complete obedience without the need for explanation.
Highlight: The line "I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together" is a chilling euphemism suggesting the Duchess's death, possibly at the Duke's order.
The poem concludes with the Duke smoothly transitioning to discuss dowry arrangements for his next marriage, indicating that he sees women as interchangeable possessions. He then points out a bronze statue of Neptune taming a sea-horse, which serves as a metaphor for his desire to control and dominate.
Analysis: The dramatic monologue structure allows Browning to reveal the Duke's true nature through his own words, creating a powerful critique of power, class, and misogyny.
The poem's use of rhyming couplets and enjambment creates a conversational tone that belies the sinister content. This technique enhances the unsettling effect of the Duke's casual attitude towards his wife's fate.
Definition: Enjambment - The continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line of poetry to the next without a pause.
This line-by-line analysis of "My Last Duchess" reveals Browning's masterful use of dramatic monologue to explore themes of control, possession, and the abuse of power, making it a classic example of Victorian poetry's psychological depth.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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Page 1: Introduction and Opening Lines
The poem "My Last Duchess" by Robert Browning is set in Renaissance Italy, specifically in Ferrara. It is structured as a dramatic monologue, a long speech from one character's perspective, which allows readers to delve into the Duke's possessive and controlling mindset.
The Duke begins by showing a visitor a portrait of his late wife, referring to her as "my last Duchess." This immediately establishes his sense of ownership over her, even after her death. He praises the painting's lifelike quality and mentions the artist, Fra Pandolf, by name.
Highlight: The Duke's use of possessive language and his control over who sees the painting reveal his domineering nature.
The Duke describes how people react to the portrait, noting the "depth and passion of its earnest glance." He seems to take pride in his ability to control access to the painting, drawing back the curtain for his guest.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
As the monologue progresses, the Duke's sinister undertones become more apparent. He reveals his displeasure at the Duchess's behavior, particularly her tendency to be "easily impressed" and her willingness to smile at everyone.
Vocabulary: Euphemism - A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
The Duke's jealousy and need for control are evident in his description of the Duchess's reactions to simple pleasures, such as sunset or cherries. His language suggests that he viewed her joy as a threat to his authority.
Example: The Duke's irritation at the Duchess's delight in a "bough of cherries" brought by an "officious fool" demonstrates his irrational jealousy.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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