Page 2: The Duke's Confession and New Prospects

The second page reveals the full extent of the Duke's tyrannical nature and hints at his wife's fate. His discussion moves from past grievances to current marriage negotiations, showing his unchanged character.

Quote: "This grew; I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together."

Highlight: This chilling line strongly implies the Duke had his previous wife killed for her perceived disobedience.

The poem concludes with the Duke discussing dowry arrangements while showing off another artwork - a bronze Neptune taming a sea-horse, which symbolically reflects his desire to control and dominate.

Definition: The "nine-hundred-years-old name" refers to the Duke's ancient noble lineage, which he values above human qualities.

Example: The final image of Neptune taming a sea-horse serves as a metaphor for the Duke's approach to marriage and power.

Page 1: The Duke's Introduction and Initial Revelations

The opening section of "My Last Duchess" establishes the dramatic situation as the Duke shows his visitor a portrait of his deceased wife. The Duke's controlling nature becomes immediately apparent through his language and behavior.

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

Highlight: The use of "my" and the present-tense description emphasizes the Duke's sense of ownership, even after his wife's death.

Vocabulary: "Frà Pandolf" refers to a fictional artist, whose mention reveals the Duke's pride in his art collection.

The Duke's description of his wife's tendency to blush at compliments and find joy in simple pleasures reveals his growing jealousy and possessiveness. His criticism of her "easily impressed" nature demonstrates his disapproval of her natural warmth and humanity.

Example: The Duke's displeasure at his wife's appreciation of a sunset or "the bough of cherries" shows his unreasonable expectations of exclusive devotion.