My last duchess

• Who is the author of the poem "My Last Duchess"?

  Robert Browning
• What is the primary setting of "My Last Duchess"?

  Italian Renaissance
• What narrative style is used in "My Last Duchess"?

  Dramatic monologue
• When was "My Last Duchess" published?

  1842
• What biographical detail about Browning is relevant to understanding the poem?

  His marriage to Elizabeth Barrett
• How does Browning's education influence his poetry?

  He was homeschooled with extensive resources
• What does the duke in "My Last Duchess" represent?

  A controlling and possibly insane character
• What major societal changes occurred during the Victorian era?

  Industrialization and mass migration
• What was the role of women in Victorian society?

  Seen as the angel of the house
• How does the poem reflect attitudes towards women in the Victorian era?

  It critiques the suppression of female sexuality
• What was the legal status of women upon marriage in the Victorian era?

  They became the legal property of their husbands
• How did the duke view his wife's happiness?

  He believed it was dependent on him
• What does the duke's obsession with his wife's behavior suggest?

  Victorian men's dependency on power over women
• What is a significant theme in "My Last Duchess"?

  Power and gender discrimination
• What does the duke imply about the artist's influence on his wife?

  The artist could make her happy too
• How does Browning's setting of the poem in the Italian Renaissance serve a purpose?

  It allows critique of Victorian society indirectly
• What does the duke's reference to the painting suggest about his character?

  He values appearances and control
• What is the significance of the duke's name-dropping of the artist?

  It highlights his pride and status
• How does the duke describe his wife's reactions to various stimuli?

  She was easily impressed by everything
• What does the duke's attitude towards his wife's gratitude reveal?

  He feels threatened by her independence
• What does the duke imply about his wife's blush?

  It was influenced by others, not just him
• What does the duke's disdain for his wife's behavior suggest about his character?

  He is arrogant and controlling
• How does the poem's exploration of power dynamics relate to the Victorian era?

  It reflects societal norms of male dominance
• What literary device is prominent in "My Last Duchess"?

  Imagery
• How does Browning's use of a dramatic monologue affect the poem's impact?

  It provides insight into the duke's psyche
• What can be inferred about the duke's past relationships?

  He likely had control issues
• What does the duke's final attitude towards his last duchess suggest?

  He views her as an object
• What does the poem suggest about the nature of power in relationships?

  Power can lead to oppression
• How does the poem's setting in the Italian Renaissance enhance its themes?

  It contrasts with Victorian societal norms
• What is the significance of the duke's obsession with his wife's behavior?

  It highlights his need for control
• How does Browning's portrayal of the duke reflect societal attitudes?

  It critiques male dominance and control
• What does the duke's perspective reveal about his character flaws?

  He is insecure and possessive
• What does the duke's reference to the artist imply about his values?

  He values status and reputation
• How does the poem's structure contribute to its meaning?

  It reflects the duke's controlling nature
• What can be inferred about the duke's view of women from the poem?

  He sees them as possessions
• What is the overall tone of "My Last Duchess"?

  Arrogant and sinister
• How does the duke's dialogue reveal his character?

  It shows his arrogance and entitlement
• What does the poem suggest about the consequences of power dynamics?

  They can lead to tragedy and loss
• What is a key theme in Browning's poetry?

  Power and control
• How does the duke's perception of his wife reflect societal norms?

  It mirrors the objectification of women