Question

what is a dramatic monologue?
a. a dialogue between two characters in conversation
b. a poem with no specific structure or set format
c. a poem where a single speaker addresses a silent listener
d. a narrative that includes multiple speakers and voices
read the following excerpt from \my last duchess\ by robert browning, and answer the questions.
thats my last duchess painted on the wall, looking as if she were alive. i call that piece a wonder, now; frà pandolfs hands worked busily a day, and there she stands. willt please you sit and look at her? i said \frà pandolf\ by design, for never read strangers like you that pictured countenance, the depth and passion of its earnest glance, but to myself they turned (since none puts by the curtain i have drawn for you, but i) and seemed as they would ask me, if they durst, how such a glance came there; so, not the first are you to turn and ask thus. sir, twas not her husbands presence only, called that spot of joy into the duchess cheek...
why is the dukes mention of \commands\ significant in \my last duchess\?
a. it implies he ordered her death
b. it reveals his generosity
c. it indicates his indecisiveness
d. it shows his love for the duchess
what emotion is evident in the dukes attitude towards the duchesss friendly nature?
a. confusion
b. jealousy
c. indifference

Explanation:

First Question (What is a dramatic monologue?):

A dramatic monologue is a poem where a single speaker addresses a silent listener (often revealing their character). Option a is a dialogue (not monologue), b is free verse (not defining monologue), d has multiple speakers (opposite of monologue). So c matches the definition.

In "My Last Duchess", the Duke's "commands" imply his controlling nature. The context suggests he may have ordered the Duchess' death (as he was displeased with her). Option b (generosity) is wrong, c (indecisiveness) is wrong, d (love) is wrong (he was possessive, not loving). So a is correct.

The Duke is jealous of the Duchess' friendly interactions (he disliked her showing joy from others, showing possessive jealousy). Confusion/indifference don't align with his controlling tone. So jealousy (assuming option with jealousy) is correct.

Answer:

c. A poem where a single speaker addresses a silent listener

Second Question (Duke's mention of "commands"):