How is the Duke presented in “My Last Duchess”? 

Answer

What kind of man was the Duke in the poem “My Last Duchess”?

Or, How is the Duke presented in “My Last Duchess”? 

Or, Write a note on the character of the Duke. 

In Browning’s (1812-1889) dramatic monologue “My Last Duchess” (1842), the Duke of Ferrara is speaking to a man who has come to arrange his new marriage. While talking, he shows a painting of his last Duchess (his dead wife). From his words, we understand that the Duke is an arrogant, jealous, and controlling man, and a cruel murderer.

Proud and Arrogant: The Duke is a very proud ruler. He is arrogant. He takes mighty pride in his family name and status. We learn this when he says his name is “a nine-hundred-years-old name.” The Duke repeatedly draws the guest’s attention to his wealth and power. He also hints threat about what happens to those who do not respect him. Moreover, he talks with the guest about the beautiful painting of his dead wife. He seems to value the painting more than his wife.

Jealous and Controlling: The Duke cannot accept that the Duchess was kind to everyone. She smiled at many people and enjoyed simple things. He wanted her to smile only for him. He did not like her innocent happiness. The Duke’s words reveal that he is a jealous man. He saw her as an unfaithful wife. We realize that he actually gave commands to kill his last Duchess. As he says:

“I gave commands; 

Then all smiles stopped together.”

This proves that the Duke is a cruel murderer. He thinks women are objects to possess and dominate.

In short, the Duke is a proud, jealous, and cruel murderer. He wants complete control over others, especially his wife. He cannot accept smiles, kindness, or joy unless it is only for him. Browning shows how dangerous pride and power can be in such a person.