Analysis of Browning's 'My Last Duchess'

The poem 'My Last Duchess' by Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue narrated by the Duke of Ferrara. He speaks to an envoy about a painting of his late wife, revealing his controlling nature and jealousy. The Duke's need for control leads to the Duchess's death, as he could not tolerate her independent spirit. The poem critiques the view of women as property in the Victorian era and highlights the coldness of the aristocracy.

Who is the narrator of 'My Last Duchess'?

• The Duchess

• The Duke of Ferrara

• Robert Browning

• The Italian nobleman

What form does the poem 'My Last Duchess' take?

• A sonnet

• A dramatic monologue

• A ballad

• A haiku

What does the Duke reveal to the envoy?

• A sculpture

• A letter

• A piece of jewelry

• A painting of his late wife

Who painted the portrait of the Duchess?

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Fra Pandolf

• Raphael

• Michelangelo

What does the Duke say about his late wife's gaze?

• It was reserved only for him

• It was full of hatred

• It was directed at everyone and everything

• It was cold and distant

What made the Duchess blush according to the Duke?

• The Duke's compliments

• The sight of cherries

• The sound of music

• The smell of flowers

What action did the Duke take against the Duchess?

• He divorced her

• He sent her away

• He ignored her

• He commanded her death

What does the Duke's action towards the Duchess suggest about his character?

• He is compassionate

• He is forgiving

• He is controlling

• He is indifferent

What does Browning suggest about the European aristocracy through the Duke's character?

• They are generous

• They are humble

• They are inherently controlling

• They are misunderstood

What does the Duke discuss with the envoy after finishing his story?

• His future marriage

• His financial troubles

• His political ambitions

• His health issues