5. ‘My Last Duchess’ — Robert Browning
Summary:
A Duke, while showing a portrait of his late wife to an envoy, reveals his controlling, jealous nature. He disapproved of his wife’s friendliness and modesty and hints that he had her silenced. The poem portrays the Duke’s possessiveness and the treatment of women as property in patriarchal society.
Analysis:
- The Duke’s arrogance and objectification of the Duchess are revealed through his casual speech.
- He values control and status more than love.
- Dramatic irony: the Duke’s own words expose his cruelty.
- The art (portrait) replaces the living woman, highlighting obsession with appearances.
Key Techniques:
- Dramatic monologue: reader uncovers the truth through Duke’s self-revelation.
- Iambic pentameter and rhymed couplets control the rhythm — mirroring Duke’s need for control.
- Allusions to wealth, power, and art as status symbols.
- Enjambment blurs thoughts, suggesting barely contained anger.