A Level English Literature AQA

My Last Duchess

Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess"

Contextual Overview

• Victorian Era (1837-1901) context: This era, known for its social, political, and intellectual changes, could have had a potential impact on Browning's work.
• The themes of patriarchy and power were significant societal elements during the era when Browning wrote this poem and are reflected in the Duke's dominance.

Themes Identified

• Power and control
• Pride and jealousy
• Possession and objectification
• Innocence and corruption

Poetic Techniques

• Dramatic monologue: A single character, the Duke, speaks throughout the poem.
• The poem uses rhymed iambic pentameter, which reflects the Duke's desire for control through its tight structure.
• The use of enjambment gives the impression of the Duke's natural, free-flowing speech.

Character Analysis

• The Duke: His possessiveness, jealousy, and extreme pride are demonstrated throughout the monologue, revealing his character flaws.
• The Duchess: She is depicted as an innocent, joyful character who appreciates simple pleasures, revealed through retrospective descriptions and indirect characterisation.

Imagery and Symbolism

• The painting of the Duchess: Represents the Duke's control and objectification of the Duchess.
• Spot of joy in the Duchess's cheeks: An important metaphor for the Duke's jealousy and suspicion.

Language Analysis

• Browning’s use of alliteration, assonance and sibilance throughout the poem is significant.
• The Duke uses colloquial and casual language that belies the threatening undercurrent of his words.

Possible Interpretations

• The poem may be seen as a critique of the patriarchal society of the Victorian era.
• The Duchess could be interpreted as a victim of societal norms.
• The poem could be seen as a commentary on power dynamics and manipulation in relationships.

Examining the Crime Element

• There's the insinuation of the Duchess's murder, with a high likelihood of the Duke being responsible.
• The notion of the crime of objectifying women through possession and control is present.
• The suggestion of psychological manipulation as another form of criminal conduct is made.

Literary Comparisons

• Consider other pieces in the Crime: Poetry Anthology that offer similar or contrasting perspectives on crime, power and control.
• Explore parallels to other works by Browning – a theme of crime and punishment is often prevalent.

Remember: All interpretations of this poem are valid. When evaluating this piece, argue a critical viewpoint and substantiate it with evidence from the poem.