My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue... Show more
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
136
1
E
Evie Turner
21/07/2025
English Literature
my last duchess notes
4,530
•
21 Jul 2025
•
My Last Duchess Analysis Notes & PDF | Power and Conflict Poetry
E
Evie Turner
@evieturner_hlca
Page 2: The Duke's Jealousy and Actions
The second page delves deeper into the Duke's jealousy and his justification for his actions. He reveals more about his perception of the Duchess and the events leading to her demise.
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 passage highlights the Duke's inflated sense of self-importance and his frustration with the Duchess's inability to recognize his perceived superiority.
Highlight: The Duke's refusal to "stoop" to explaining his displeasure to the Duchess reveals his arrogance and unwillingness to communicate.
The poem reaches its climax with the chilling lines:
Quote: "This grew; I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together."
This subtle admission implies the Duke's role in the Duchess's death, showcasing the extreme consequences of his jealousy and need for control.
Definition: Dramatic monologue - a poetic form where a character reveals their personality through a one-sided conversation, as exemplified in "My Last Duchess".
The page concludes with the Duke smoothly transitioning to discuss the dowry for his next marriage, demonstrating his callousness and view of women as commodities.
Page 3: Context and Connections
The final page provides crucial context for "My Last Duchess" and its connections to other poems in the Power and Conflict Poetry Anthology.
Highlight: The poem is based on the historical figure of Duke Alfonso II of Ferrara, who was rumored to have poisoned his first wife, Lucrezia, in the 1550s.
This historical basis adds depth to the poem's exploration of power abuse and gender dynamics in Renaissance Italy.
Example: Alfonso II had three wives in total, with the first two dying under suspicious circumstances, mirroring the Duke's casual mention of his "last" Duchess in the poem.
The page emphasizes Browning's role as a Victorian poet using historical settings to comment on contemporary issues, particularly female oppression.
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - a poetic form Browning mastered to reveal character through speech.
The summary concludes by suggesting comparisons with other poems in the anthology:
- "Ozymandias" - exploring the abuse of power
- "Poppies" - themes of death and loss
- "Checking Out Me History" - examining historical narratives and power dynamics
These connections help situate "My Last Duchess" within the broader themes of the Power and Conflict poems, making it a valuable resource for GCSE English Literature students studying the AQA poetry anthology.
Page 1: Introduction and Opening Lines
The first page introduces Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess", setting the scene in Ferrara. The poem begins with the Duke showing a portrait of his late wife to a visitor, likely an emissary arranging his next marriage.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
These opening lines immediately establish the Duke's possessive attitude and hint at the Duchess's fate. The use of "last" suggests she is one of many, objectifying her from the start.
Highlight: The Duke's control over who views the portrait is emphasized, revealing his desire for power and ownership.
The Duke proceeds to describe the Duchess's personality, revealing his jealousy and disapproval of her friendly nature.
Example: The Duke mentions how the Duchess would blush at compliments from Fra Pandolf, the painter, showcasing his paranoia about her interactions with others.
Vocabulary: "Countenance" - facial expression, used to describe the lifelike quality of the portrait.
The page concludes with the Duke's growing frustration at the Duchess's ability to find joy in simple things, from sunsets to cherry boughs, implying his desire for her attention to be solely on him.
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
My Last Duchess Analysis Notes & PDF | Power and Conflict Poetry
E
Evie Turner
@evieturner_hlca
My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue that explores themes of power, jealousy, and the objectification of women. The poem is narrated by the Duke of Ferrara, who reveals his controlling and possessive nature while discussing a... Show more
Page 2: The Duke's Jealousy and Actions
The second page delves deeper into the Duke's jealousy and his justification for his actions. He reveals more about his perception of the Duchess and the events leading to her demise.
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 passage highlights the Duke's inflated sense of self-importance and his frustration with the Duchess's inability to recognize his perceived superiority.
Highlight: The Duke's refusal to "stoop" to explaining his displeasure to the Duchess reveals his arrogance and unwillingness to communicate.
The poem reaches its climax with the chilling lines:
Quote: "This grew; I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together."
This subtle admission implies the Duke's role in the Duchess's death, showcasing the extreme consequences of his jealousy and need for control.
Definition: Dramatic monologue - a poetic form where a character reveals their personality through a one-sided conversation, as exemplified in "My Last Duchess".
The page concludes with the Duke smoothly transitioning to discuss the dowry for his next marriage, demonstrating his callousness and view of women as commodities.
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 3: Context and Connections
The final page provides crucial context for "My Last Duchess" and its connections to other poems in the Power and Conflict Poetry Anthology.
Highlight: The poem is based on the historical figure of Duke Alfonso II of Ferrara, who was rumored to have poisoned his first wife, Lucrezia, in the 1550s.
This historical basis adds depth to the poem's exploration of power abuse and gender dynamics in Renaissance Italy.
Example: Alfonso II had three wives in total, with the first two dying under suspicious circumstances, mirroring the Duke's casual mention of his "last" Duchess in the poem.
The page emphasizes Browning's role as a Victorian poet using historical settings to comment on contemporary issues, particularly female oppression.
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - a poetic form Browning mastered to reveal character through speech.
The summary concludes by suggesting comparisons with other poems in the anthology:
- "Ozymandias" - exploring the abuse of power
- "Poppies" - themes of death and loss
- "Checking Out Me History" - examining historical narratives and power dynamics
These connections help situate "My Last Duchess" within the broader themes of the Power and Conflict poems, making it a valuable resource for GCSE English Literature students studying the AQA poetry anthology.
Page 1: Introduction and Opening Lines
The first page introduces Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess", setting the scene in Ferrara. The poem begins with the Duke showing a portrait of his late wife to a visitor, likely an emissary arranging his next marriage.
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
These opening lines immediately establish the Duke's possessive attitude and hint at the Duchess's fate. The use of "last" suggests she is one of many, objectifying her from the start.
Highlight: The Duke's control over who views the portrait is emphasized, revealing his desire for power and ownership.
The Duke proceeds to describe the Duchess's personality, revealing his jealousy and disapproval of her friendly nature.
Example: The Duke mentions how the Duchess would blush at compliments from Fra Pandolf, the painter, showcasing his paranoia about her interactions with others.
Vocabulary: "Countenance" - facial expression, used to describe the lifelike quality of the portrait.
The page concludes with the Duke's growing frustration at the Duchess's ability to find joy in simple things, from sunsets to cherry boughs, implying his desire for her attention to be solely on him.
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