Porphyria's Lover Character Points

Question 1

Point 1

Answer 1

Browning’s use of pathetic fallacy from the outset is effective in conveying the twisted and dark mind of the speaker:

Question 2

Point 2

Answer 2

Porphyria now joins the speaker and after a slow, methodical removal of her damp clothing she initiates physical contact and intimacy between her and the persona whilst he remains passive:

Question 3

Point 3

Answer 3

In a somewhat unexpected moment, the speaker abruptly strangles Porphyria with her own hair:

Question 4

Point 4

Answer 4

In an attempt to justify his actions, the speaker reassures himself and the reader that what he did was justified and without cruelty:

Question 5

Point 5

Answer 5

After unwrapping her hair and sitting her up, the delusional speaker feels as if he has fulfilled Porphyria’s greatest desire of them being together:

Question 6

Point 6

Answer 6

At the final part of the poem, we witness the persona rejoicing the fact that he has not faced any repercussions for his crime and achieved his aim: