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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 3 page essay that analyzes Browning's poem "My Last Duchess" as a dramatic monologue. The writer defines "dramatic monologue" and discusses how Browning uses this device to create a concise character sketch of a depraved and shallow nobleman. No additional sources cited.
Page Count:
3 pages (~225 words per page)
File: D0_khmlddm.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
a single critical moment. Implied is that there is a listener to the poem, but the reader is also a listener and learns about the character of the speaker from
the content of the poem. In essence, the dramatic monologue turns the poem into a concise character sketch. Robert Browning was adept at this form of poetry. His poem "My
Last Duchess" paints a detailed picture of the nobleman who is the speaker of the poem, and, in so doing, portrays the shallowness and cruelty of this aristocrat. The
premise of the poem is that the Duke, that is, the speaker of the poem, is showing his extensive art collection to an emissary who has been charged with arranging
a marriage between the Duke and his masters daughter. The Duke pauses before a portrait of his last duchess and begins to expound upon the details of the portrait sittings
that produced the painting and his late wifes supposed transgressions. While this may seem out-of-place, the subtle undertone that Browning establishes makes it clear that the Duke is quite aware
of what he is doing; he is sending a message to his potential bride. The message that the Duke wishes to send is that he requires nothing less than
the complete submission and obedience of his wife to his will. She should concentrate all of her attention on him, or face dire consequences. This is made clear
by the Duke when he begins to discuss the conduct of his "last duchess." First of all, he remarks how it was undoubtedly the remarks of the artist that brought
a "spot of joy" to the ladys cheek (line 21). The Duke states, "She had/ A heart ...how shall I say?...too soon made glad,/ Too easily impressed" (lines 21-23).
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