My Last Duchess

1. The Exaggerated Importance of Social Status and Hierarchy is an important theme explored in “My Last Duchess.” Re-read the poem and list all the instances where the concept of hierarchy plays out. Is the idea of hierarchy restricted merely to social status? How does it appear in the context of relationships? For each instance listed, make a note of whether it relates to social status, personal dynamic, or even an interaction of the two.

2. Read “Porphyria’s Lover,” another one of Browning’s dramatic monologues, and explore the similarities with “My Last Duchess.” Now consider the form and meter of both poems as well as the characterization, motivations, and social contexts of each speaker. How do form and meter contribute to differences between the two poems, with respect to the characterization, motivations, and social contexts of the speakers? Write a brief essay comparing the two pieces with sufficient examples from each poem to support your analysis.