Robert Browning's 'My Last Duchess' delves into the dynamics of power and control in the Italian Renaissance. The Duke of Ferrara's monologue exposes his authoritarian nature and the objectification of his late wife, reflecting societal norms that treated women as property. The poem's literary techniques and symbolism critique the historical subjugation of women and the patriarchal structures of the time.
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The poem is set against the backdrop of the Italian Renaissance, a period known for its cultural and artistic achievements
Alfonso II d'Este and Lucrezia di Cosimo de' Medici
The poem draws inspiration from the marriage of Alfonso II d'Este and Lucrezia di Cosimo de' Medici, reflecting the societal norms of the 16th century
Browning's own egalitarian marriage to Elizabeth Barrett Browning may have influenced his portrayal of gender roles in the poem
The Duke's controlling tone and actions expose the themes of power and possession in the poem
The Duke's treatment of his late wife as an object rather than a person highlights the societal norms of the time where women were seen as property
The poem serves as a subtle condemnation of the historical subjugation of women in a patriarchal society
Browning's use of enjambment, alliteration, and caesura contribute to the depth and complexity of the Duke's character and his relationship with the Duchess
The use of rhyming couplets adds a sense of order and control, mirroring the Duke's personality
The vivid imagery in the poem, such as the Duchess's blushes and smiles, contrasts with the Duke's disapproval and highlights the themes of authority and control
00
The poem 'My Last Duchess' by ______ ______, is a dramatic monologue that was made public in the year ______.
Robert
Browning
1842
01
In 'My Last Duchess,' the ______ of ______ speaks to an emissary about his deceased wife's portrait, while the poem explores themes of ______, ______, and ______ norms.
Duke
Ferrara
power
possession
social
02
Duchess's demeanor critique
Duke disapproves of Duchess's geniality; sees it as undignified and too indiscriminate.
