15. ‘My Last Duchess’ by Robert Browning
Bio of the Poet
- Robert Browning (1812–1889): Victorian poet, master of the dramatic monologue.
- Known for psychological complexity and moral ambiguity.
- This poem reflects themes of control, power, and pride.
Detailed Summary
- A Duke shows a portrait of his late wife (the Duchess) to a visitor.
- He describes her as overly friendly and easily impressed—he was annoyed she valued everything equally.
- He “gave commands” and she stopped smiling—implying he had her killed.
- The Duke moves on to discuss a new marriage arrangement, revealing his possessiveness and lack of remorse.
Main Themes
- Power and Control
- Jealousy and Pride
- Gender Roles
- Art and Ownership
Literary Analysis
- Form: Dramatic monologue (iambic pentameter, rhyming couplets).
- Tone: Calm, controlled—but chilling in implication.
- Language:
- Irony: The Duke believes he is dignified, but reveals his cruelty.
- Metaphor: The painting = his control over his wife.
- Irony: The Duke believes he is dignified, but reveals his cruelty.
- Structure: Enjambment mimics natural speech but also his inability to stop revealing himself.
Main Message
- Power can corrupt and dehumanise.
- The poem critiques the objectification of women and abuse of authority in patriarchal societies.
Expected Exam Questions
- How is the Duke presented in ‘My Last Duchess’?
- Explore how power is shown in the poem.
- What is revealed about the relationship between the Duke and the Duchess?
- Compare the presentation of control in this poem with another you have studied.