Porphyria's Lover Pear 2 Analysis (Character)

Question 1

“When no voice replied”

Answer 1

Through the phrase “when no voice replied”, Browning is suggesting that the persona is detached from the situation; he is lost in his own thoughts and too focused on studying Porphyria closely to respond. The jealousy he feels about Porphyria going out to a social gathering is also evident as well as the possibility that the speaker fears that anything he may say to Porphyria could consequently mean she would leave him.

Question 2

reference to Porphyria’s shoulder

Answer 2

The reference to Porphyria’s shoulder is a provocative, sensual and even shocking gesture given that Victorian standards were extremely strict and social etiquette was of the utmost importance at the time. Despite this, her white shoulder underlines the fact that she is pure and innocent.

Question 3

focus on hair

Answer 3

The persona focuses on Porphyria’s hair - the instrument of her death - which foreshadows the violent act which he is about to commit.

Question 4

“displaced”

Answer 4

Browning’s use of the word ‘displaced’ symbolises Porphyria’s unconstrained female sexuality which fixates the speaker.

Question 5

description of Porphyria’s actions

Answer 5

Through the description of Porphyria’s actions, the persona is keen to emphasise his passivity and her control in the situation.

Question 6

“made my cheek lie there”

Answer 6

This is furthered with the phrase “made my cheek lie there” which highlights that, from the speaker’s viewpoint, Porphyria orchestrated the intimacy and sensual contact, suggesting that the persona should not be held accountable for the horrific crime that he will soon commit.