Vocabulary in My Last Duchess

A poem in which a single speaker addresses a silent listener, revealing their character through what they say and how they say it, often unintentionally exposing uncomfortable truths about themselves.

An Italian title meaning 'Brother,' used before the name of a friar or monk, here indicating the painter is a member of a religious order.

A person's face or facial expression, especially as it reflects their mood or inner feelings.

A loose, sleeveless cloak or covering worn over other clothing, here referring to part of the Duchess's dress as depicted in the portrait.

Sincere and serious in feeling or intention, showing genuine emotion rather than polite pretense.

A contracted, poetic form of 'whatever,' used to fit the meter of the verse.

Becoming pleased or delighted too quickly and too easily, without the discrimination or restraint the Duke thinks is appropriate to her high social position.

Moved to admiration or pleasure by something; here used to criticize the Duchess for being stirred by ordinary things that the Duke considers beneath notice.

A large branch of a tree, here referring to a branch of cherries given to the Duchess as a gift.

Excessively eager to offer help or attention in a way that feels intrusive or presumptuous; here describing someone who busily does small favors without being asked.

The Duke's ancient and noble family title, which he considers an extraordinary privilege he bestowed on the Duchess by marrying her and which she failed to value sufficiently.

To lower oneself in dignity or status by doing something one considers beneath one's rank; the Duke refuses to lower his pride by explaining his displeasure to the Duchess.

A deliberate euphemism in which the Duke hints, without stating it plainly, that he ordered the Duchess to be killed or otherwise silenced.

Exceptional generosity, especially in giving money or gifts; here the Duke refers to the Count's generous offer of a dowry for his daughter.

The money, property, or wealth that a bride's family transfers to her husband at the time of marriage, here the financial terms being negotiated for the Duke's next wife.

Something uncommon and therefore especially prized; here the Duke describes the bronze sculpture of Neptune as a rare and exceptional work of art.

To shape a metal object by pouring molten metal into a mold and letting it harden; here referring to how the sculptor made the bronze statue.

Bringing a wild or powerful creature under control by force or dominance; here the image of Neptune controlling a sea-horse mirrors the Duke's own desire to dominate those around him.