Robert Browning

Based on the intro of Browning, creates his characters to be epic. He would create this almost theatrical view of his characters by the 1840s (660) "applying to lyric poetry his theatrical instincts and his aversion to self-revelation, he found he could produce startling new effects. Henceforth he would present his audience with a cast of aberrant personalities, each starring in his or her miniplay"(660). He also placed his characters in historical places and periods. It is said that he didn't invent the poetic monolgue just complicated it, in a good way I'm sure. He created a new level using his distinctive language. The same language that can make you hate and love a character at the same time. "Browning induces his readers to sympathize--even identify--with speakers of dubious morality and intentions" (660).

Porphyria's Lover

Thought it was interesting his sullen tone to start a poem about a lover. In comparison to his wife, he begins this relationship almost sourly, not happy but vexed by his (the lover) love. "I listened with heart fit to break" (662). The female character is strong, exposing a sexual side, that most would never show in Victorian culture. "She put my arm about her waist, And made her smooth white shoulder bare, And all her yellow hair displaced, And, stooping made my cheek lie there, And spread, o'er all, her yellow hair, Murmuring how she loved me--she Too weak, for all her heart's endeavour, To set its struggling passion free From pride, and vainer ties dissever, And give herself to me for ever" (662-663). This imagery suggests a woman seducing her lover to take her virginity. Something she can only give to one man, forever. Her heart bursting with fire and emotion, love, not understanding but wanting to be released from the ties that bind her. Her social standings, and rank could cause this particular event to be taboo. If this is a sexual scene and there was no marriage prior too, she could be shunned from her family. And lose her social standings. However, she seems to want to be released unto her lover and her lover only not caring about the consequences. This is again a strong female character. Not playing into social roles of the day, but taking charge for what she wants. By the end they expect judgment for their act of promiscuity. "And thus we sit together now, And all night long we have not stirred, And yet God has not said a word!" (663)