Identity, imagination, thought, emotions and behavior all have an association with the term self-image. Every person possesses a self-image, but how important is this self-image for that person? What are the significant points to work with if we are speaking about self-image? How are self-images influenced by other people, and what can individuals do to influence their own self-images in such a way as to realize personal wishes.
The intention of this essay is to find answers for these questions within the dramatic monologues studied during the seminar.
In the course of this I make use of Robert Brownings "My Last Duchess" and Alfred Lord Tennyson's "Ulysses".
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2.1 Historical background in “My Last Duchess”
2.2 The self-image of the speaker in “My Last Duchess”
3.1 A short look into “Ulysses” character
3.2 The self-image of the speaker in “Ulysses”
4. Conclusion
5. Bibliography
Research Objectives and Core Themes
This paper examines the significance of the speaker's self-image within Victorian dramatic monologues, specifically focusing on how individual perceptions of self are constructed and revealed through discourse. The research aims to explore how these self-images function as tools for characterization and as reflections of the speaker's emotional state, personal history, and intentions.
- The psychological construction of the "self" in poetic narrative.
- Analysis of power dynamics and authority in Browning’s "My Last Duchess".
- Exploration of sorrow, aging, and existential transition in Tennyson’s "Ulysses".
- The relationship between the poet's life and the dramatic speaker's persona.
- The role of the listener (auditor) in shaping the speaker's internal monologue.
Excerpt from the Book
3.2 The self-image of the speaker in “Ulysses”
In “Ulysses” and a few other poems, Alfred Lord Tennyson draws the attention to a lack of masculinity within the male protagonist. Due to this, the character differs from the protagonist in Browning poem, who is considered an ideal of manhood. The leading males in the works of Tennyson seem to be unsure, epicene, weak and sensitive. Ulysses demonstrates such sensitiveness, and has a vulnerable self-image. He concerns himself with death, which impersonates his last experience, the purpose of which is to find consolation and satisfaction. Accompaniment and assistance is to be found in a special three-cornered alliance between him and his son Telemachus, as well as among Ulysses and his wife Penelope, who has also grown old.
From the start the atmosphere conveys an impression of dissatisfaction. By observing the introductory lines “It little profits that an idle King...mete and dole/Unequal laws unto a savage race,… and know not me.” By reading between the lines one may assume that a considerable gap between “Ulysses” and his subjects has emerged due to his long adventurous journey, and that the king has distanced himself from them.(1-5) Nevertheless, it must be difficult for Ulysses to realize that he has grown apart from his own nation after so many years. He has even lost much of his dominion over the “strangers”, his “former” subjects. This loss of identification with his citizens puts “Ulysses” in a precarious position after his return.
Chapter Summary
1. Introduction: This chapter defines the dramatic monologue as a genre and introduces the central research focus on the concept of the speaker's self-image.
2.1 Historical background in “My Last Duchess”: This section provides the historical context regarding Alfonso II and the courtly background necessary to interpret the motivations of the Duke.
2.2 The self-image of the speaker in “My Last Duchess”: This chapter analyzes how the Duke projects an invulnerable and arrogant self-image to maintain control and hide his true intentions from the envoy.
3.1 A short look into “Ulysses” character: This part examines the autobiographical elements of Tennyson's life, particularly his grief over Arthur Henry Hallam, which influenced the character of Ulysses.
3.2 The self-image of the speaker in “Ulysses”: This section explores the fractured and vulnerable self-image of Ulysses as he confronts aging, loss of relevance, and a desire for final exploration.
4. Conclusion: The conclusion synthesizes the findings, contrasting the Duke's reckless authority with the wistful self-understanding of Ulysses.
5. Bibliography: This chapter lists all literary and academic sources consulted for the analysis.
Keywords
Victorian Poetry, Dramatic Monologue, Self-image, Robert Browning, Alfred Lord Tennyson, My Last Duchess, Ulysses, Literary Analysis, Characterization, Speaker Persona, Psychological Narrative, Masculinity, Autonomy, Identity, Emotional Expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fundamental focus of this academic paper?
The paper explores the importance of the concept of a "self-image" in speakers within dramatic monologues, specifically analyzing how this construction reveals the speaker's temperament, motives, and psychological state.
Which specific poems are analyzed in this research?
The study centers on Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess" and Alfred Lord Tennyson's "Ulysses".
What is the primary research goal regarding these poems?
The goal is to determine how the speakers in these monologues utilize their perceived self-images to manage their environments and express their hidden internal emotions to the reader.
What methodology is employed to analyze these texts?
The author uses a literary analysis approach, drawing upon M. H. Abrams' characterizations of the dramatic monologue and examining biographical contexts to interpret the speakers' discourses.
What does the main body of the paper cover?
The body covers historical contexts for the poems, analyses of the speakers' authoritative vs. vulnerable self-concepts, and comparisons of how each poet handles themes like power, loss, and existential duty.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Key terms include Victorian Poetry, Dramatic Monologue, Self-image, Identity, and Psychological Narrative.
How does the Duke in "My Last Duchess" use his self-image?
He uses a projection of authority and calm strength to hide his manipulative nature and his true desire for a new dowry from his listener.
What defines the self-image of Ulysses in Tennyson's poem?
Ulysses possesses a fractured and vulnerable self-image, characterized by feelings of displacement, stagnation, and a restless drive for knowledge despite his aging status.
How does the role of the auditor differ between the two poems?
In "My Last Duchess", the envoy is an incidental listener to the Duke's interior monologue, whereas in "Ulysses", the narrative functions as a reflective consolidation for the speaker himself.
Does the author suggest that these self-images are static?
No, the author illustrates that the self-images in these poems are deeply influenced by the speakers' past experiences, personal relationships, and specific situational pressures.
- Quote paper
- Ronny Müller (Author), 2011, The Importance of the Concept of a Self-image of Speakers within Dramatic Monologues , Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/180604
