In Robert Browning’s poem ‘My Last Duchess’, the fate of the duchess remains ambiguous, but it is heavily implied that she is no longer alive due to the jealousy and possessiveness of her husband, the Duke of Ferrara. The Duke reveals his feelings about the duchess’s behavior—specifically, her friendly demeanor and her tendency to appreciate people and experiences rather than solely focusing on her husband’s status. He perceived her charm as a threat to his authority and pride.
As the Duke discusses a portrait of the duchess with an emissary, his words suggest he took drastic measures to silence her free spirit. Although he never explicitly states that he caused her death, he references how he ‘gave commands’ which led to her being ‘made’ to stop smiling. This chilling implication hints at a fatal consequence stemming from his jealousy and desire for control.
Ultimately, the poem serves as a critique of the Duke’s character and the societal norms of the time, indicating how power dynamics can lead to tragic outcomes in personal relationships.