The Duke in "My Last Duchess" by Robert Browning reveals his possessiveness and control over his wife in several ways throughout the poem. Here's a discussion of these aspects

 

The Setting (Lines 1-2)

• • The poem opens with the Duke displaying a portrait of his last duchess to the emissary. The fact that he carries around her portrait suggests a possessive attitude. The painting is a representation of her that he controls and can share as he sees fit.

Critical Tone (Lines 3-6)

• • The Duke criticizes the duchess for her easily pleased nature. By characterizing her smiles as common and indiscriminate, he diminishes her individuality and attempts to assert control over her emotional expressions.

Jealousy and Disapproval (Lines 25-31)

• • The Duke expresses disapproval of the duchess's appreciation for simple pleasures. He reveals his jealousy by not being able to tolerate her enjoyment of things other than himself. This hints at his desire to control not just her actions but also her feelings.

Controlling Behavior (Lines 32-43)

• • The Duke admits to using an agent to address the issue of the duchess's behavior. He couldn't stoop to correct her himself, indicating a certain level of detachment but also a desire to maintain control. This decision to employ someone else to convey his displeasure reflects a power dynamic within the relationship.

Expectations of Reverence (Lines 45-56)

• • The Duke desires a particular kind of respect and attention from his wife. He expects her to treat him with the same level of exclusive admiration that he demands from others. This expectation reveals his need for control over her thoughts and emotions.

Materialistic View of Marriage (Lines 11-15)

• • The Duke sees the marriage in transactional terms, pointing out the material benefits he brought to the union, such as his "nine-hundred-years-old name." This materialistic perspective reinforces his possessiveness, viewing his wife as an extension of his social status.

Implied Violence (Lines 56-59)

• • The poem hints at the possibility that the Duke may have had his duchess murdered. The lines "I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together" suggest a sinister turn of events. If true, this underscores the ultimate expression of control, where he not only possesses her in life but also in death.

Monologue Format (Throughout the Poem)

• • The fact that the Duke is speaking to an emissary in a monologue format adds another layer to his control. He dictates the narrative and controls the information that is shared. The listener has no opportunity to hear the duchess's side of the story, emphasizing the Duke's dominance in shaping the narrative.

In summary, the Duke's possessiveness and control over his wife are evident in his actions, words, and attitudes throughout the poem. His need for dominance, materialistic views, and potential involvement in her demise highlight a character consumed by a desire to assert power over his spouse.

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