My Last Duchessis a dramatic monologue that reveals the... Show more
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Anna
21/06/2023
English Literature
My Last Duchess
2,183
•
21 Jun 2023
•
My Last Duchess: Key Quotes and Analysis for GCSE
Anna
@anna_new07
1 / 2
Page 2: Further Language Analysis and Themes in "My Last Duchess"
This page continues the analysis of language in Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess", focusing on additional quotes that reveal the Duke's character and the poem's key themes.
Language (continued)
- Boasting about status:
Quote: "My gift of a nine-hundred-years-old name"
This line reveals the Duke's pride in his ancient lineage and his view of his wife as a possession. It reflects the societal norms of the time, where women lost their legal rights upon marriage.
- Swift and cold actions:
Quote: "This grew; I gave commands"
The use of caesura and short phrases in this line highlights the Duke's ruthlessness and the swiftness with which he disposed of his wife's life.
- Euphemism for murder:
Quote: "Then all smiles stopped together."
The sibilance in this line creates a sinister tone. This euphemism for the Duchess's murder demonstrates the Duke's power to end a life without consequence, while also revealing his lack of control through such an extreme overreaction.
- Metaphor for control:
Quote: "Notice Neptune, though, taming a sea-horse"
This final reference to the Duke's art collection serves multiple purposes:
- It emphasizes his wealth and power one last time.
- It acts as a subtle warning to his visitor about his expectations for his next wife.
- The metaphor of Neptune suggests the Duke sees himself as god-like, needing to "tame" his wife.
Highlight: The Duke's return to discussing his art collection at the end of the poem underscores his materialistic nature and his tendency to value possessions over people.
Themes
-
Power and Control: The Duke's obsession with controlling others, particularly his wives, is a central theme of the poem.
-
Jealousy: The Duke's irrational jealousy of his late wife's friendly nature drives his actions.
-
Status and Reputation: The Duke places great importance on his social standing and how others perceive him.
-
Objectification of Women: The poem critiques the treatment of women as possessions in aristocratic society.
-
Art and Reality: The contrast between the lifelike portrait of the Duchess and her actual fate raises questions about the relationship between art and reality.
Definition: Hubris - Excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to negative consequences.
Example: The Duke's comparison of himself to Neptune taming a sea-horse exemplifies his hubris and his view of marriage as a process of taming or controlling a wife.
Page 1: Structure and Language Analysis of "My Last Duchess"
This page delves into the structure and language of Robert Browning's poem "My Last Duchess", offering insights into how these elements contribute to the portrayal of the Duke's character and the poem's themes.
Structure
The poem is structured as a dramatic monologue written in iambic pentameter, a choice that serves multiple purposes:
- It creates a sense of direct communication with the reader, heightening the shock value of the Duke's actions.
- It reinforces the impression of a conversation between the Duke and his visitor.
- The use of iambic pentameter, often associated with Shakespearean characters of high status, underscores the Duke's obsession with his reputation and social standing.
Highlight: The first-person narrative contributes to the conversational style, suggesting that the Duke views his actions as normal and acceptable.
The poem's structure also reveals aspects of the Duke's personality:
- The Duke is the sole voice in the poem, indicating his controlling nature as he allows no interruptions to his narrative.
- The use of rhyming couplets demonstrates the Duke's desire for control, while enjambment suggests he gets carried away with his anger and passions, creating an unsettling portrait of an unstable character obsessed with power.
Language
Browning employs various language techniques to portray the Duke's character:
- Possessive pronouns:
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall"
The repeated use of "my" throughout the poem emphasizes the Duke's view of his wife as a possession.
- Rhetorical questions:
Quote: "Will't please you sit and look at her?"
While appearing polite, this question is actually a command, emphasizing the Duke's power and pride.
- Metaphors:
Quote: "Her husband's presence only, called that spot of joy into the Duchess' cheek"
This metaphor for blushing reveals the Duke's unreasonable expectations and paranoia. He expects to be his wife's sole source of joy and wants her to live in perpetual gratitude.
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a character speaks to a silent listener, revealing aspects of their personality.
Example: Shakespeare's use of iambic pentameter in his plays often indicated a character's high status, similar to how Browning uses it to highlight the Duke's obsession with reputation.
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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: Key Quotes and Analysis for GCSE
Anna
@anna_new07
My Last Duchessis a dramatic monologue that reveals the controlling nature of a Duke as he discusses his late wife with a representative of his future bride's family. The poem, based on a real historical figure, explores themes of... Show more
Page 2: Further Language Analysis and Themes in "My Last Duchess"
This page continues the analysis of language in Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess", focusing on additional quotes that reveal the Duke's character and the poem's key themes.
Language (continued)
- Boasting about status:
Quote: "My gift of a nine-hundred-years-old name"
This line reveals the Duke's pride in his ancient lineage and his view of his wife as a possession. It reflects the societal norms of the time, where women lost their legal rights upon marriage.
- Swift and cold actions:
Quote: "This grew; I gave commands"
The use of caesura and short phrases in this line highlights the Duke's ruthlessness and the swiftness with which he disposed of his wife's life.
- Euphemism for murder:
Quote: "Then all smiles stopped together."
The sibilance in this line creates a sinister tone. This euphemism for the Duchess's murder demonstrates the Duke's power to end a life without consequence, while also revealing his lack of control through such an extreme overreaction.
- Metaphor for control:
Quote: "Notice Neptune, though, taming a sea-horse"
This final reference to the Duke's art collection serves multiple purposes:
- It emphasizes his wealth and power one last time.
- It acts as a subtle warning to his visitor about his expectations for his next wife.
- The metaphor of Neptune suggests the Duke sees himself as god-like, needing to "tame" his wife.
Highlight: The Duke's return to discussing his art collection at the end of the poem underscores his materialistic nature and his tendency to value possessions over people.
Themes
-
Power and Control: The Duke's obsession with controlling others, particularly his wives, is a central theme of the poem.
-
Jealousy: The Duke's irrational jealousy of his late wife's friendly nature drives his actions.
-
Status and Reputation: The Duke places great importance on his social standing and how others perceive him.
-
Objectification of Women: The poem critiques the treatment of women as possessions in aristocratic society.
-
Art and Reality: The contrast between the lifelike portrait of the Duchess and her actual fate raises questions about the relationship between art and reality.
Definition: Hubris - Excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to negative consequences.
Example: The Duke's comparison of himself to Neptune taming a sea-horse exemplifies his hubris and his view of marriage as a process of taming or controlling a wife.
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: Structure and Language Analysis of "My Last Duchess"
This page delves into the structure and language of Robert Browning's poem "My Last Duchess", offering insights into how these elements contribute to the portrayal of the Duke's character and the poem's themes.
Structure
The poem is structured as a dramatic monologue written in iambic pentameter, a choice that serves multiple purposes:
- It creates a sense of direct communication with the reader, heightening the shock value of the Duke's actions.
- It reinforces the impression of a conversation between the Duke and his visitor.
- The use of iambic pentameter, often associated with Shakespearean characters of high status, underscores the Duke's obsession with his reputation and social standing.
Highlight: The first-person narrative contributes to the conversational style, suggesting that the Duke views his actions as normal and acceptable.
The poem's structure also reveals aspects of the Duke's personality:
- The Duke is the sole voice in the poem, indicating his controlling nature as he allows no interruptions to his narrative.
- The use of rhyming couplets demonstrates the Duke's desire for control, while enjambment suggests he gets carried away with his anger and passions, creating an unsettling portrait of an unstable character obsessed with power.
Language
Browning employs various language techniques to portray the Duke's character:
- Possessive pronouns:
Quote: "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall"
The repeated use of "my" throughout the poem emphasizes the Duke's view of his wife as a possession.
- Rhetorical questions:
Quote: "Will't please you sit and look at her?"
While appearing polite, this question is actually a command, emphasizing the Duke's power and pride.
- Metaphors:
Quote: "Her husband's presence only, called that spot of joy into the Duchess' cheek"
This metaphor for blushing reveals the Duke's unreasonable expectations and paranoia. He expects to be his wife's sole source of joy and wants her to live in perpetual gratitude.
Vocabulary: Dramatic monologue - A type of poem in which a character speaks to a silent listener, revealing aspects of their personality.
Example: Shakespeare's use of iambic pentameter in his plays often indicated a character's high status, similar to how Browning uses it to highlight the Duke's obsession with reputation.
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