Duke's attitude towards the portrait

 

In Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess," the Duke's attitude toward the portrait of his late duchess reveals a lot about his understanding of art, power, and possessiveness.

 

1. Objectification of Art

• The Duke sees the portrait not as a representation of a person but as an object that he owns. He refers to the painting as "my last Duchess" and has it covered with a curtain, controlling who sees it and when. This demonstrates his view of art as a possession, a mere reflection of his status and control.

2. Control and Power Dynamics

• The Duke's understanding of art reflects his desire for control and dominance. He talks about how the duchess's expressions were "too soon made glad, / Too easily impressed." He wanted her to appreciate only his "gift of a nine-hundred-years-old name" and his social rank. His desire to control her emotions and behavior reflects his desire for control over the portrayal of her in the portrait as well.

3. Superficiality vs. Depth

• The Duke's understanding of art appears superficial. He is more concerned about the outward appearance and social reputation represented in the painting rather than the depth of emotion or personality captured in the portrait. He doesn’t appreciate the genuine joy and innocence on the duchess's face, only viewing it as a sign of her supposed flirtatiousness.

4. Art as a Status Symbol

• For the Duke, art is a means to showcase his wealth, status, and lineage. He commissioned the portrait to honor his late wife, but it also serves as a symbol of his power and position. His concern about the duchess's behavior impacting his social standing reflects his transactional view of both art and marriage.

5. Lack of Empathy and Emotional Understanding

• The Duke's inability to appreciate the genuine emotions conveyed in the portrait highlights his lack of empathy and emotional depth. He doesn't comprehend or value the duchess's natural warmth and joy, reducing her essence to a controlled, lifeless image.

6. Art as a Reflection of Character

• Ultimately, the Duke's attitude toward the portrait reflects his possessiveness, arrogance, and a sense of entitlement. His skewed understanding of art mirrors his distorted perception of relationships and his inability to appreciate the true essence of human emotions and individuality.

By considering these aspects of the Duke's attitude towards the portrait, one can evaluate how Browning uses the Duke's understanding of art to reveal deeper themes of power, control, and the objectification of both art and individuals within the poem.

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