My Last Duchess Flashcards
What is the main theme of ‘My Last Duchess’?
The main theme is power and control in relationships.
True or False: The Duke in ‘My Last Duchess’ is a sympathetic character.
False
Fill in the blank: The poem ‘My Last Duchess’ is written in _______.
iambic pentameter
What does the Duke’s attitude towards the Duchess reveal about his character?
It reveals his possessiveness and lack of empathy.
Identify one symbol used in ‘My Last Duchess’.
The portrait of the Duchess.
How does the structure of the poem contribute to its meaning?
The dramatic monologue structure allows insight into the Duke’s psyche.
What is a key quote that illustrates the Duke’s jealousy?
‘She had a heart – how shall I say? – too soon made glad.’
What historical context is important for understanding ‘My Last Duchess’?
The poem reflects the Italian Renaissance and the power dynamics of aristocracy.
True or False: The Duchess is given a voice in the poem.
False
What does the Duke’s control over the portrait signify?
It signifies his desire to control the memory and legacy of the Duchess.
Multiple choice: What literary device is predominantly used in ‘My Last Duchess’?
Dramatic monologue
How does Browning explore themes of art and reality in the poem?
By contrasting the Duke’s perception of the Duchess with her actual character.
What does the Duke mean by saying the Duchess ‘smiled’ at everyone?
He perceives her friendliness as a betrayal of his exclusivity.
Fill in the blank: The poem ends with the Duke speaking about a _______.
statue of Neptune.
What is the significance of the Duke’s final words?
They reveal his ongoing desire for control and status.
What is one way in which ‘My Last Duchess’ can be compared to another poem?
It can be compared to ‘Porphyria’s Lover’ in its exploration of power and possession.
True or False: The poem is a reflection of Victorian values.
True
What emotion does the Duke primarily exhibit towards the Duchess?
Jealousy
Identify a key theme related to gender in ‘My Last Duchess’.
The theme of male dominance over female identity.
What does the Duke’s reference to the ‘nine-hundred-years-old name’ suggest?
It suggests his obsession with lineage and aristocratic pride.
How does the use of enjambment affect the poem?
It creates a sense of urgency and reflects the Duke’s unstable emotions.
What does the repeated use of the word ‘my’ indicate about the Duke?
It indicates his possessiveness and entitlement.
What is the tone of ‘My Last Duchess’?
The tone is one of arrogance and coldness.
True or False: The poem critiques the norms of the time regarding marriage.
True
