My Last Duchess Flashcards
Who is the speaker in My Last Duchess?
The Duke of Ferrara
What is the painting of the Duchess described as in the poem?
A portrait
What does the Duke reveal about the Duchess’ personality in the poem?
That she was too easily impressed and too flirtatious
What is the Duke’s attitude towards the Duchess’ behavior?
He disapproved of it
Who is the listener in the poem?
The emissary of the Count
What does the Duke imply about the Duchess’ smile in the painting?
That it was only for him
What does the Duke suggest happened to the Duchess?
He had her killed
What does the Duke’s possession of the painting symbolize?
His control over the Duchess
What is the tone of the Duke’s monologue?
Arrogant and controlling
What does the Duke value more than the Duchess’ life?
His pride and reputation
What is the theme of the poem My Last Duchess?
Jealousy and power
What is the significance of the title My Last Duchess?
The Duke views the Duchess as a possession
What is the form of the poem My Last Duchess?
Dramatic monologue
What is the setting of the poem My Last Duchess?
The Duke’s palace
What is the Duke’s motivation for telling the story in the poem?
To assert his dominance and control
What is the Duke’s view of marriage in the poem?
He sees it as a way to gain power and status
What is the significance of the Duke’s casual mention of other works of art in the poem?
It shows his materialistic and possessive nature
What does the Duke’s reference to Neptune taming a sea-horse symbolize?
His desire to control and dominate
What does the Duke reveal about his own character through his monologue?
His arrogance and lack of empathy
What does the Duke’s treatment of the Duchess reveal about his attitude towards women?
He views them as objects to be controlled
What is the significance of the Duke’s refusal to name the Duchess directly in the poem?
It dehumanizes her and shows his possessiveness
What is the role of the painting in the poem My Last Duchess?
It serves as a symbol of the Duchess’ beauty and the Duke’s power
What is the effect of the Duke’s language and tone in the poem?
It creates a sense of unease and tension
What is the Duke’s final instruction to the listener in the poem?
To go and look at the painting
