Tennyson & Browning

 Tennyson & Browning

Question : Justify Tennyson as the representative literary figure of the Victorian Era.

Answer :

Introduction : Alfred Lord Tennyson is widely regarded as the representative literary figure of the Victorian era because his poetry deeply reflects the social, cultural, and intellectual currents of the time. His works engage with key Victorian concerns, such as the tension between faith and science, the role of duty and honor, and the complexities of personal and social identity, all while embodying the aesthetic values of the era.

 Engagement with Victorian Themes:

Tennyson’s poetry addresses the moral and intellectual dilemmas of the Victorian period, notably the tension between traditional religious beliefs and the emerging scientific worldview. In his poem In Memoriam, for instance, he grapples with the death of his close friend, Arthur Hallam, while confronting the implications of Darwin's theory of evolution, which was challenging traditional Christian doctrines about creation and the afterlife. The poem is a profound meditation on grief, loss, and the search for spiritual meaning in a changing world, reflecting the Victorian struggle to reconcile faith with modern science.

 Victorian Morality and Duty:

Tennyson’s works often explore themes of duty and personal responsibility, which were central to Victorian moral values. His poem Ulysses portrays the legendary Greek hero in his old age, longing for adventure and action despite his years. Through Ulysses' speech, Tennyson conveys a message of ceaseless striving and the desire for purpose, reflecting the Victorian ideal that one should always pursue a higher calling and fulfill one’s duty, regardless of age or circumstance.

Poetic Style and Popularity:

Tennyson’s distinct poetic style, marked by musicality, elevated diction, and vivid imagery, was widely admired during the Victorian era. His ability to capture complex emotional and philosophical concerns in accessible, melodic verse made him one of the most popular poets of his time. As Poet Laureate of Britain from 1850 until his death, he became the voice of the nation, and his works were revered by both the intellectual elite and the general public.

Famous Poems:

Some of Tennyson’s most famous works include:

• "In Memoriam": This long poem is one of his most celebrated works, dealing with grief, faith, and the search for meaning in a world that was being transformed by scientific discovery.
• "The Charge of the Light Brigade": A stirring account of the ill-fated charge during the Battle of Balaclava, this poem captures the themes of duty and bravery in the face of unquestioning loyalty.
• "Ulysses": A dramatic monologue in which the aging Ulysses reflects on his life and expresses a desire for continued adventure and purpose, embodying Victorian ideals of restless striving and unwavering ambition.
• "The Lady of Shalott": A lyrical ballad that explores themes of isolation, art, and fate through the story of a lady trapped in a tower, who can only view the world through a mirror.

Question : Pick a poem written by Robert Browning and discuss its thematic concerns.

Answer : 

Robert Browning’s poem “My Last Duchess” (1842) is a compelling dramatic monologue that explores themes of power, control, pride, and the objectification of others, particularly women. Here's an analysis of its thematic concerns:

1. Power and Control

The speaker, the Duke of Ferrara, narrates the poem as he shows a portrait of his late wife to an emissary. Through his monologue, it becomes evident that he exercises absolute control over his environment, including his wife’s memory. The Duke’s obsessive need to dominate is most chillingly demonstrated when he implies that he orchestrated the Duchess’s death for her perceived lack of submission:

“I gave commands;
Then all smiles stopped together.”

This statement reveals the Duke’s authoritarian mindset and his view of his wife as a possession rather than a partner.

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2. Objectification and Ownership

The Duke reduces the Duchess to a piece of art—a painting—over which he has complete control. Unlike the living Duchess, whose smiles and interactions he could not dictate, the painted version of her exists solely for his pleasure, silenced and still:

“There she stands
As if alive.”

This reveals the Duke’s preference for a woman who can neither challenge nor disappoint him, emphasizing the commodification of women and the erasure of their individuality.

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3. Jealousy and Insecurity

Despite his lofty status, the Duke exhibits deep insecurity. He is unable to tolerate the Duchess’s joy or the idea that her smiles could be directed at others. His jealousy stems from a fear of losing control, as he interprets her affability as a personal affront:

“She had
A heart—how shall I say?—too soon made glad,
Too easily impressed.”

This portrays a deeply flawed character, incapable of understanding or appreciating genuine human warmth and spontaneity.

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4. Art as a Symbol of Power

Throughout the poem, Browning juxtaposes art and life. The Duke’s collection of art, including the portrait of his late wife, symbolizes his wealth and cultural refinement. Yet, his treatment of the Duchess reveals the sinister ways he uses art to assert dominance. The poem critiques the misuse of art and culture to mask cruelty and authoritarianism.

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5. The Danger of Hubris

The Duke’s pride and arrogance are central to the poem. He narrates his actions without remorse, displaying a chilling detachment. His hubris blinds him to his moral failings, reinforcing the theme of unchecked power leading to corruption.

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Conclusion

“My Last Duchess” serves as a critique of patriarchal dominance and the dehumanization inherent in viewing people as possessions. Browning masterfully uses the Duke’s monologue to unravel layers of character, revealing how power, pride, and jealousy can distort human relationships. The poem remains a timeless exploration of the dark side of power and control.