Page 1: Analysis of My Last Duchess
This page provides a detailed analysis of Robert Browning's poem "My Last Duchess", focusing on its form, structure, and key themes.
The poem is written as a dramatic monologue in iambic pentameter with rhyming couplets, reflecting the Duke's controlling nature. It is presented as a one-sided conversation, with the Duke addressing a silent listener.
Highlight: The use of enjambment and occasional breaks in the iambic pentameter reveal moments when the Duke's composure slips, hinting at his inner turmoil.
The Duke's character is revealed through his words and actions:
Example: In line 36, the Duke admits to a fault in parentheses - "whichIhavenot" - showing his jealousy and inability to communicate effectively with his wife.
Key themes explored include:
- Pride
- Jealousy
- Power
- Class distinctions
- The conflict between wealth and morality
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a single character speaks to a silent listener, revealing their personality and perspective.
The Duke is characterized as:
- Arrogant
- Insensitive
- Selfish
- Jealous
- Obsessive
- Controlling
- Paranoid
Quote: "She thanked men, - good! but thanked / Somehow - I know not how - as if she ranked / My gift of a nine-hundred-years-old name / With anybody's gift."
This quote highlights the Duke's insecurity and belief that his wife should have appreciated his title and status more than the attention of others.
The poem's structure mirrors its content, with the tightly controlled rhyme scheme reflecting the Duke's desire for control over his wife and environment.
