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
13
1
Nicole-Mary Djanie
30/09/2025
English Literature
My last duchess annotations
443
•
30 Sept 2025
•
My Last Duchess Annotations and Summary PDF | Mr Bruff Analysis
Nicole-Mary Djanie
@nicolemarydjanie
Page 2: Context and Background of My Last Duchess
This page provides essential context for understanding Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess" and its historical inspiration.
The poem was written in 1842 but is set in 1561, drawing inspiration from the life of Alfonso II, Duke of Ferrara. Alfonso's first wife died in 1561 after only three years of marriage, a fact that adds a chilling dimension to the poem's narrative.
Highlight: The poem's historical setting in Renaissance Italy allows Browning to explore themes of power, art, and the treatment of women in aristocratic society.
Robert Browning's background is also relevant to the poem's creation:
- He married Elizabeth Barrett, another poet, in secret
- As a child, he was heavily influenced by books and art
- At 14, he could speak Latin, Greek, and French
- He left university because it didn't suit him
Definition: Dramatic monologue - A poetic form in which a single character speaks to a silent listener, revealing their personality and perspective through their words.
The poem's structure and content are closely intertwined:
- The long verse paragraph reflects the Duke's tendency to speak at length without pause for reflection
- The painting of the Duchess is described as being behind a curtain, symbolizing the Duke's control over her image and memory
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
This opening line sets a sinister tone, immediately suggesting that the Duchess has been replaced and is now merely a possession to be displayed.
The Duke's controlling nature is evident throughout the poem, from his manipulation of the conversation to his treatment of the Duchess's memory. His inability to control his wife in life led to her death, revealing the dangerous extremes of his jealousy and need for power.
Example: The Duke's comment about Neptune "Taming a sea-horse" at the end of the poem suggests his belief that he should have been able to "tame" his wife, further emphasizing his disturbing attitude towards women and relationships.
Page 1: Analysis of My Last Duchess
This page provides a detailed analysis of Robert Browning's poem "My Last Duchess", focusing on its form, structure, and key themes.
The poem is written as a dramatic monologue in iambic pentameter with rhyming couplets, reflecting the Duke's controlling nature. It is presented as a one-sided conversation, with the Duke addressing a silent listener.
Highlight: The use of enjambment and occasional breaks in the iambic pentameter reveal moments when the Duke's composure slips, hinting at his inner turmoil.
The Duke's character is revealed through his words and actions:
Example: In line 36, the Duke admits to a fault in parentheses - "" - showing his jealousy and inability to communicate effectively with his wife.
Key themes explored include:
- Pride
- Jealousy
- Power
- Class distinctions
- The conflict between wealth and morality
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a single character speaks to a silent listener, revealing their personality and perspective.
The Duke is characterized as:
- Arrogant
- Insensitive
- Selfish
- Jealous
- Obsessive
- Controlling
- Paranoid
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 quote highlights the Duke's insecurity and belief that his wife should have appreciated his title and status more than the attention of others.
The poem's structure mirrors its content, with the tightly controlled rhyme scheme reflecting the Duke's desire for control over his wife and environment.
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 Annotations and Summary PDF | Mr Bruff Analysis
Nicole-Mary Djanie
@nicolemarydjanie
My Last Duchessby Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue that offers a chilling glimpse into the mind of a jealous, controlling Duke. Through his words, we see the tragic fate of his late wife and his disturbing attitudes towards... Show more
Page 2: Context and Background of My Last Duchess
This page provides essential context for understanding Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess" and its historical inspiration.
The poem was written in 1842 but is set in 1561, drawing inspiration from the life of Alfonso II, Duke of Ferrara. Alfonso's first wife died in 1561 after only three years of marriage, a fact that adds a chilling dimension to the poem's narrative.
Highlight: The poem's historical setting in Renaissance Italy allows Browning to explore themes of power, art, and the treatment of women in aristocratic society.
Robert Browning's background is also relevant to the poem's creation:
- He married Elizabeth Barrett, another poet, in secret
- As a child, he was heavily influenced by books and art
- At 14, he could speak Latin, Greek, and French
- He left university because it didn't suit him
Definition: Dramatic monologue - A poetic form in which a single character speaks to a silent listener, revealing their personality and perspective through their words.
The poem's structure and content are closely intertwined:
- The long verse paragraph reflects the Duke's tendency to speak at length without pause for reflection
- The painting of the Duchess is described as being behind a curtain, symbolizing the Duke's control over her image and memory
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, / Looking as if she were alive."
This opening line sets a sinister tone, immediately suggesting that the Duchess has been replaced and is now merely a possession to be displayed.
The Duke's controlling nature is evident throughout the poem, from his manipulation of the conversation to his treatment of the Duchess's memory. His inability to control his wife in life led to her death, revealing the dangerous extremes of his jealousy and need for power.
Example: The Duke's comment about Neptune "Taming a sea-horse" at the end of the poem suggests his belief that he should have been able to "tame" his wife, further emphasizing his disturbing attitude towards women and relationships.
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: Analysis of My Last Duchess
This page provides a detailed analysis of Robert Browning's poem "My Last Duchess", focusing on its form, structure, and key themes.
The poem is written as a dramatic monologue in iambic pentameter with rhyming couplets, reflecting the Duke's controlling nature. It is presented as a one-sided conversation, with the Duke addressing a silent listener.
Highlight: The use of enjambment and occasional breaks in the iambic pentameter reveal moments when the Duke's composure slips, hinting at his inner turmoil.
The Duke's character is revealed through his words and actions:
Example: In line 36, the Duke admits to a fault in parentheses - "" - showing his jealousy and inability to communicate effectively with his wife.
Key themes explored include:
- Pride
- Jealousy
- Power
- Class distinctions
- The conflict between wealth and morality
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a single character speaks to a silent listener, revealing their personality and perspective.
The Duke is characterized as:
- Arrogant
- Insensitive
- Selfish
- Jealous
- Obsessive
- Controlling
- Paranoid
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 quote highlights the Duke's insecurity and belief that his wife should have appreciated his title and status more than the attention of others.
The poem's structure mirrors its content, with the tightly controlled rhyme scheme reflecting the Duke's desire for control over his wife and environment.
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.
13
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Browning's Last Duchess Analysis
Explore the intricate themes of power, control, and gender dynamics in Robert Browning's 'My Last Duchess'. This detailed analysis covers the poem's structure, imagery, and key quotes, highlighting the Duke's narcissism and the societal context of the 19th century. Ideal for students studying power and conflict poetry, this resource provides insights into the character dynamics and literary techniques used by Browning.
English Literature11
Marley's Ghost Analysis
Explore the character of Marley's Ghost in 'A Christmas Carol' through a detailed analysis of his symbolism, quotes, and the impact on Scrooge's transformation. This summary highlights key themes such as social responsibility and the consequences of a life focused on wealth. Ideal for students studying Dickens' work and its deeper meanings.
English Literature11
Remains Poem Analysis
Explore a detailed analysis of 'Remains' by Simon Armitage, focusing on its structure, themes of guilt, war, and trauma. This study note examines the use of enjambment, tone, and vivid imagery to convey the emotional impact of war. Ideal for students studying contemporary poetry and its representation of PTSD. Includes key concepts such as symbolism, colloquial language, and the juxtaposition of casual tone with violent actions.
English Literature11
Power & Conflict Poetry Analysis
Explore key themes and structures in Power and Conflict poetry, including Ozymandias, London, The Prelude, and My Last Duchess. This analysis delves into the power dynamics between nature and humanity, trauma, memory, and societal issues, providing essential insights for exam preparation. Ideal for students studying the AQA English Literature curriculum.
English Literature10
Tissue Analysis Overview
Explore the intricate themes and structures in Imtiaz Dharker's poem 'Tissue'. This analysis covers key concepts such as the relationship between humans and nature, materialism, and the symbolism of tissue as a metaphor for society. Ideal for students studying Power and Conflict poetry, this resource provides insights into imagery, language, and the poem's deeper meanings.
English Literature11
Human Power in Ozymandias
Explore how Percy Bysshe Shelley examines the theme of human power in his poem 'Ozymandias'. This analysis delves into the symbolism of the statue, the portrayal of Rameses II's arrogance, and the implications of power dynamics between rulers and their subjects. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding key literary concepts. Type: Analytical Essay.
English Lang.10
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