My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue... Show more
SociologySign 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
6,720
•
17 Dec 2025
•
My Last Duchess Full Poem and In-Depth Annotations PDF
Page 2 Summary
The second page continues the duke's monologue, further revealing his jealous and controlling nature. He expresses frustration that his wife treated his "gift of a nine-hundred-years-old name" with the same appreciation as any other kindness shown to her.
The duke admits his lack of communication skills, stating he could not bring himself to correct his wife's behavior directly. He viewed such communication as beneath him, saying "I choose / Never to stoop." This reveals his arrogance and inability to engage in healthy marital communication.
Quote: "Even had you skill / In speech - (which I have not) - to make your will / Quite clear to such an one, and say, 'Just this / Or that in you disgusts me; here you miss, / Or there exceed the mark'"
The poem takes a dark turn as the duke implies he had his wife killed, stating "I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together." This chilling line is delivered matter-of-factly, highlighting the duke's lack of remorse.
Highlight: The duke's casual mention of ending his wife's life reveals the extreme consequences of his jealousy and need for control.
The monologue concludes with the duke returning to the business at hand - negotiating a new marriage. He assures the listener that his "object" is the Count's daughter, not just her dowry. This swift transition from discussing his murdered wife to arranging a new marriage underscores his cold, calculating nature.
Example: The duke's comparison of himself to Neptune "taming a sea-horse" in the final lines serves as a metaphor for how he views relationships - the man must dominate and control the woman.
The poem ends with the duke pointing out a bronze statue, once again asserting his wealth and power. This final display of pride and materialism reinforces the duke's character as a man obsessed with control, ownership, and status.
Page 1 Summary
The opening of "My Last Duchess" introduces the dramatic monologue format and provides context for the poem. The duke is speaking to a visitor, showing off a portrait of his late wife and revealing his possessive attitude towards her.
The duke begins by pointing out the lifelike portrait of his "last Duchess" painted by Fra Pandolf. His use of possessive language like "That's my last Duchess" immediately suggests his view of his wife as a possession. He invites the visitor to sit and examine the painting, noting how the artist captured the Duchess's lively expression.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
The duke's commentary reveals his resentment of his wife's warm and friendly nature. He is bothered that she blushed at Fra Pandolf's compliments and seemed to enjoy attention from others besides himself.
Highlight: The duke's jealousy and need for control are evident as he criticizes his wife for being "too easily impressed" and claims "her looks went everywhere."
Browning uses rhyming couplets and iambic pentameter to give the duke's speech a controlled, measured quality that contrasts with the disturbing content of his words. This formal structure emphasizes the duke's attempt to maintain a polite, aristocratic facade while exposing his true nature.
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a character speaks to a silent listener, revealing aspects of their personality.
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.
Most popular content: Porphyria's Lover
Most popular content in English Language
Most popular content
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
My Last Duchess Full Poem and In-Depth Annotations PDF
My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue that explores themes of power, control, and jealousy through the voice of a Renaissance duke. The poem provides insight into the duke's possessive and controlling nature as he discusses his... Show more
Page 2 Summary
The second page continues the duke's monologue, further revealing his jealous and controlling nature. He expresses frustration that his wife treated his "gift of a nine-hundred-years-old name" with the same appreciation as any other kindness shown to her.
The duke admits his lack of communication skills, stating he could not bring himself to correct his wife's behavior directly. He viewed such communication as beneath him, saying "I choose / Never to stoop." This reveals his arrogance and inability to engage in healthy marital communication.
Quote: "Even had you skill / In speech - (which I have not) - to make your will / Quite clear to such an one, and say, 'Just this / Or that in you disgusts me; here you miss, / Or there exceed the mark'"
The poem takes a dark turn as the duke implies he had his wife killed, stating "I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together." This chilling line is delivered matter-of-factly, highlighting the duke's lack of remorse.
Highlight: The duke's casual mention of ending his wife's life reveals the extreme consequences of his jealousy and need for control.
The monologue concludes with the duke returning to the business at hand - negotiating a new marriage. He assures the listener that his "object" is the Count's daughter, not just her dowry. This swift transition from discussing his murdered wife to arranging a new marriage underscores his cold, calculating nature.
Example: The duke's comparison of himself to Neptune "taming a sea-horse" in the final lines serves as a metaphor for how he views relationships - the man must dominate and control the woman.
The poem ends with the duke pointing out a bronze statue, once again asserting his wealth and power. This final display of pride and materialism reinforces the duke's character as a man obsessed with control, ownership, and status.
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 Summary
The opening of "My Last Duchess" introduces the dramatic monologue format and provides context for the poem. The duke is speaking to a visitor, showing off a portrait of his late wife and revealing his possessive attitude towards her.
The duke begins by pointing out the lifelike portrait of his "last Duchess" painted by Fra Pandolf. His use of possessive language like "That's my last Duchess" immediately suggests his view of his wife as a possession. He invites the visitor to sit and examine the painting, noting how the artist captured the Duchess's lively expression.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
The duke's commentary reveals his resentment of his wife's warm and friendly nature. He is bothered that she blushed at Fra Pandolf's compliments and seemed to enjoy attention from others besides himself.
Highlight: The duke's jealousy and need for control are evident as he criticizes his wife for being "too easily impressed" and claims "her looks went everywhere."
Browning uses rhyming couplets and iambic pentameter to give the duke's speech a controlled, measured quality that contrasts with the disturbing content of his words. This formal structure emphasizes the duke's attempt to maintain a polite, aristocratic facade while exposing his true nature.
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a character speaks to a silent listener, revealing aspects of their personality.
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.
445
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Lady Macbeth's Ambition
Explore the pivotal themes of ambition, gender roles, and the supernatural in Lady Macbeth's character from Act 1, Scene 5 of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. This analysis delves into her manipulation of Macbeth, the invocation of dark forces, and the subversion of traditional femininity. Key concepts include the relationship dynamics between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, the significance of darkness, and the theme of appearance versus reality. Ideal for students studying Shakespearean literature and character analysis.
English Literature11
Wordsworth's Prelude Analysis
Explore a detailed analysis of William Wordsworth's extract from 'The Prelude'. This study note covers key themes such as the power of nature, internal conflict, and the poet's feelings of insignificance. Ideal for GCSE English Literature students, it includes annotations and insights into the poem's structure, including blank verse and enjambment. Enhance your understanding of Romantic poetry and its emotional depth.
English Literature10
Gothic Literature Phases
Explore the key conventions, characters, and historical phases of Gothic literature, including the impact of the Enlightenment, Romanticism, and Victorian periods. This summary delves into themes of power, constraint, and the supernatural, featuring notable works like 'The Woman in Black', 'Dracula', and 'Frankenstein'.
English Literature12
War Poetry: Armitage vs. Hughes
Explore the haunting themes of guilt and trauma in Simon Armitage's 'Remains' and Ted Hughes' 'Bayonet Charge'. This comparative analysis delves into the emotional impact of war, examining key language techniques and metaphors that convey the soldiers' psychological struggles. Ideal for students studying war poetry and its representation of conflict.
English Language10
Dostoevsky's Crime & Punishment
Explore the complex themes and characters of Fyodor Dostoevsky's 'Crime and Punishment'. This summary delves into the moral dilemmas faced by Rodion Raskolnikov, the impact of poverty, and the intertwining of crime, guilt, and redemption. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding of this classic novel.
English Literature11
Keats' Autumn Analysis
Explore John Keats' poem 'To Autumn' through detailed annotations and thematic analysis. This study note delves into the rich imagery, emotional depth, and the interplay of nature and time in Keats' work. Key themes include the acceptance of change, the beauty of the season, and the melancholy of life's transience. Ideal for students studying Romantic poetry.
English Literature11
Most popular content: Porphyria's Lover
Most popular content in English Language
Most popular content
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