Robert Browning’s poem “My Last Duchess” is a powerful exploration of power dynamics, particularly the sexist treatment of women in the Victorian era. Through the voice of Duke Ferrara, we get a glimpse into a world where women are objectified and dehumanized. This essay delves into how Browning critiques this patriarchal mindset, emphasizing the Duke’s chilling attitude towards his deceased wife and his views on women in general.
The Voice of Power
Right from the start, it’s clear that the Duke is in complete control of the narrative. As he speaks to an emissary about a potential marriage with another noblewoman, his description of his last Duchess reveals much more than just fond memories. The way he refers to her as “my last Duchess” reduces her identity to mere ownership; she’s not spoken of as an individual but rather as an object that belonged to him. This sets up a framework where we can see how women were often viewed in society during Browning’s time—as possessions rather than as equals.
This objectification is further highlighted by how the Duke recounts her behaviors and attitudes. He expresses disdain for her cheerful nature and her ability to engage with others—traits that should be celebrated but are instead seen as threats to his authority. The Duke’s frustration culminates in his assertion that he “gave commands,” implying that her fate was sealed by his desire for control. It’s chillingly apparent that rather than valuing her spirit or individuality, he resented those qualities because they threatened his masculinity and dominance.
The Role of Jealousy
Jealousy plays a crucial role in understanding the Duke’s perspective on women. His obsession with maintaining power over the Duchess shows how deeply rooted these patriarchal values were at that time. The Duke is threatened by her interactions with others—her smiles and conversations seem innocent enough, yet they evoke feelings of jealousy within him. He cannot tolerate any semblance of independence or joy from someone who should be submissive to him.
This jealousy isn’t just personal; it reflects broader societal norms where men believed they had ownership over women’s affections and interactions. The Duke’s desire for absolute loyalty and compliance drives him to extremes, suggesting that any hint of autonomy could lead to dire consequences—a chilling reminder that many women lived under such oppressive conditions.
The Finality of Control
What happens next is perhaps one of the most disturbing elements in the poem: we learn about how far the Duke was willing to go to assert control over his wife. He mentions, almost casually, how he “gave commands” which resulted in her demise—there’s no remorse or guilt present here; only cold detachment. By eliminating what he perceives as disobedience, he reaffirms his dominance not just over her life but also over her legacy.
The act itself highlights not just personal failings but systemic issues regarding violence against women during this period—or any period really—and serves as a stark warning about what happens when power goes unchecked. The final lines about another portrait merely reinforce this idea: even death cannot free women from their objectification or their roles as possessions belonging to men.
The Illusion of Romance
It’s fascinating (and sad) how Browning captures this illusion surrounding love and romance through a male lens dominated by possessiveness rather than partnership or respect. The idea that marriage is something transactional permeates through every line spoken by the Duke; he’s more interested in marrying for status than out of genuine affection or companionship.
This speaks volumes about societal attitudes toward marriage during Browning’s time—women were often seen merely as means to secure alliances rather than individuals with their own rights and desires! It’s important for us today not only to recognize this historical context but also to understand its lasting impacts on contemporary discussions surrounding gender inequality and misogyny.
A Contemporary Reflection
Browning wrote “My Last Duchess” long ago, but its themes resonate today more than ever—especially given ongoing debates around feminism and gender equality across various cultures worldwide! In many ways, it acts like a mirror reflecting our society back at us: while we’ve made strides toward equality since Victorian times there remain critical areas needing attention when it comes combating sexism against women still prevalent today!
Ultimately then we must ask ourselves if we’ve truly learned from history? Or do remnants such outdated ideologies still exist lurking beneath our modern surfaces waiting once again assert themselves? By reading works like those penned by Robert Browning we’re encouraged not forget these narratives so we continue work towards changing them future generations!
- Browning, Robert. My Last Duchess.
- Murray, Christopher D., ed., “Victorian Women Poets: An Anthology.” Routledge 2000.
- Noble, Mark A., “Gender Roles in Victorian Society.” Cambridge University Press 2018.
- Soper, Kate B., “Feminism & Literature.” New York University Press 2015.
- Toshiko Hiraoka et al., “Women’s Rights Movement.” Oxford University Press 2021.
