IndexMetaphorSynecdocheIronyImageryConclusionRobert Browning's dramatic monologue "My Last Duchess" is a poem filled with rich and complex figurative language. The poem, written in 1842, is narrated by the Duke of Ferrara as he shows a visitor a painting of his late wife. Through the use of various literary devices, Browning masterfully conveys the Duke's arrogance, jealousy, and possessiveness. This essay will explore the different types of figurative language employed in the poem and their significance in conveying the character of the Duke and the themes of power, control and art. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Metaphor One of the most striking examples of figurative language in “My Last Duchess” is the use of metaphor. The Duke refers to the painting of his late wife as "My Last Duchess" and describes it as "as if she were alive". This metaphorical language reveals the Duke's possessive attitude towards his wife, as he sees the painting not only as a portrait but as an asset that he still controls. The metaphor also highlights the Duke's inability to see his wife as a living, breathing individual, with her own thoughts and desires, reducing her to a mere object in his collection. his wife. The Duke mentions "the depth and passion of his serious gaze" in reference to the eyes in the painting. This synecdoche represents the Duke's belief that he alone should be the recipient of his wife's affection and attention, reducing his entire being to a single glance. The use of synecdoche serves to emphasize the Duke's possessiveness and his desire to control every aspect of his wife's life, even in death. Irony In "My Last Duchess", Browning incorporates irony to highlight the Duke's delusional and self-centered nature. The Duke states that his late wife's "smiles stopped together" and suggests that she was too easily impressed by others, implying that she was unfaithful. However, the irony lies in the fact that it is the Duke himself who is overly controlling and possessive, ultimately leading to the death of his wife. This use of irony serves to criticize the Duke's character and his distorted perspective on the events surrounding his wife's death. Imagery Imagery plays a significant role in conveying the themes of power and control in “My Last Duchess.” Browning uses vivid descriptions of the painting, such as "the faint blush dying along the throat", to create a sense of beauty and allure. However, these images also serve to highlight the Duke's obsession with appearances and his need to possess and control his wife's beauty. The use of imagery throughout the poem reinforces the oppressive nature of the Duke and his desire to dominate every aspect of his wife's existence. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion “My Last Duchess” is a poem rich in figurative language that effectively conveys the possessive and controlling nature of the Duke. Through metaphors, synecdoche, irony, and imagery, Browning skillfully portrays the Duke's arrogance and delusional mentality. The use of these literary devices serves to emphasize the themes of power, control, and art in the poem, shedding light on the destructive consequences of uncontrolled dominance and possessiveness. “My Last Duchess” represents a timeless example of the power of figurative language to convey complex human emotions and relationships.