History of English Literature is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts,
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Answer
Write a short note on “Dramatic Monologue.”
A dramatic monologue is a type of poem in which a single speaker speaks in front of a silent listener or listeners. The single speaker reveals personal thoughts and feelings. This type of poem provides insights into the speaker’s personality, emotions, and desires. Robert Browning (1812-1889) is regarded as a master of Dramatic Monologue.
A Short List of Dramatic Monologue Writers and Poems
- Robert Browning (1812-1889): ‘My Last Duchess,’ ‘The Patriot,’ ‘Andrea Del Sarto,’ and ‘Fra Lippo Lippi’ etc.
- E. B. Browning (1806-1861), wife of Robert Browning: ‘The Runaway Slave at Pilgrim’s Point’.
- Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809-1892): ‘Ulysses,’ ‘Locksley Hall,’ ‘Oenone.’
- T. S. Eliot (1888-1965): ‘The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock’
A dramatic monologue usually has three important elements:
Single Speaker: A Dramatic Monologue has only one speaker. The speaker tells a story, memory, or deep thoughts. He may be a king, lover, murderer, or ordinary person. In Robert Browning’s “My Last Duchess,” the Duke is the only speaker. He describes his late wife and his feelings about her.
A Silent Listener or Silent Listeners: The speaker talks to someone, but the listener never replies. The listener’s presence is understood, even though we do not hear them. This makes the poem feel like a real conversation. For example: in “My Last Duchess,” the Duke speaks to a visitor, but the visitor remains silent.
Self-Revelation: The speaker of a Dramatic Monologue reveals his/her thoughts, emotions, and even secrets. The speaker’s words give us insight into his/her mind and personality. Sometimes, they unknowingly reveal dark secrets or hidden desires. This makes a dramatic monologue very interesting. For example, in “My Last Duchess,” the duke speaks about his dead wife. His words reveal his jealousy and pride—giving us a hint that he is the murderer of his wife. The duke speaks:
“I gave commands;
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