Duke's perceive his last duchess 

 

"My Last Duchess" is a dramatic monologue written by Robert Browning, where the Duke of Ferrara is the speaker. The poem provides insights into the Duke's character, his attitudes, and his perception of his last duchess. Here's a discussion of how the Duke perceives his last duchess-

 

1. Possession and Objectification (Lines 1-2)

• • The Duke perceives his last duchess as an object that he possesses. He begins the poem by showing the portrait of the duchess to an emissary, and in doing so, he establishes his control over her image.

2. Critical Nature (Lines 3-6)

• • The Duke criticizes the duchess for being too easily impressed and for finding joy in simple things. He mentions her smiles, which, according to him, were not exclusive to him but given to everyone equally. This reveals the Duke's desire for exclusivity in her affections.

3. Jealousy and Control (Lines 7-12)

• • The Duke expresses discomfort with the duchess's ability to appreciate other people and objects. He refers to her as "too soon made glad," suggesting that her happiness was too easily obtained. The Duke's jealousy and desire for control over her emotions are evident.

4. Issues of Rank and Power (Lines 32-43)

• • The Duke hints at the fact that he couldn't stoop to correct her behavior and instead chose to use an agent to convey his displeasure. This reinforces the Duke's sense of entitlement and superiority, as he believes that his rank should exempt him from directly addressing such matters with his wife.

5. Commanding Respect (Lines 45-56)

• • The Duke believes that he deserves a certain level of respect and admiration, which he feels the duchess did not adequately provide. He desired her to treat him with the same exclusive attention and reverence that he expected from others.

6. Fatal Consequence (Lines 56-59)

• • The poem hints at the possibility that the Duke had the duchess murdered. The mention of "commands" and "all smiles stopped together" suggests a darker side to the Duke's character. This perception of the duchess as a problem to be solved reveals the Duke's ruthless nature.

7. Materialistic View (Lines 11-15)

• • The Duke's perception of the duchess extends to her material value. He mentions gifts like a "nine-hundred-years-old name" and a "claus of rare device," indicating his view of marriage as a transaction with social and material implications.

In conclusion, the Duke's perception of his last duchess is one of possession, control, and dissatisfaction. He sees her through the lens of his own expectations and desires, objectifying her as a reflection of his status and authority. The poem delves into themes of power, jealousy, and the dehumanizing consequences of an overly possessive mindset.

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