Page 2: Conclusion and Deeper Themes

The second page delves deeper into the Duke's character and reveals the dark undertones of the narrative. His controlling nature reaches its climax with the implied fate of his previous Duchess.

Quote: "Then all smiles stopped together. There she stands As if alive."

The poem's structure employs rhyming couplets with enjambment, reflecting the Duke's attempt at control while revealing his unstable nature.

Definition: Enjambment - The continuation of a sentence beyond the end of a line, used here to show the Duke's loss of emotional control.

The conclusion reveals the Duke's true purpose - negotiating for a new marriage while subtly warning about his expectations.

Highlight: The final reference to Neptune "taming a sea-horse" serves as a metaphor for how the Duke expects to control his next wife.

The poem ends with a return to art appreciation, though this masks the sinister undertones of power and control that have been revealed throughout the monologue.

Page 1: Introduction and Opening Lines

The opening section of My Last Duchess introduces the main narrative framework. The Duke is showing a visitor his art collection, specifically focusing on a portrait of his deceased wife.

Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, Looking as if she were alive."

The Duke's possessive nature is immediately evident through his language and tone. He demonstrates his control by managing who can view the portrait, keeping it hidden behind a curtain that only he draws.

Highlight: The Duke's repeated use of "I" and possessive pronouns emphasizes his controlling personality.

The text reveals the Duke's complaints about his former wife's behavior, particularly her tendency to be "too easily impressed" and finding joy in simple pleasures.

Vocabulary: "Fra Pandolf" - The artist who painted the Duchess's portrait, mentioned to emphasize the Duke's appreciation of prestigious art.

Example: The Duke's jealousy is evident when he describes how his wife would blush at simple compliments from the painter, showing his possessive nature.