My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue... Show more
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221
2
Harry
07/09/2025
English Literature
My Last Duchess
7,537
•
7 Sept 2025
•
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.
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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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
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.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and 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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user