My Last Duchess Group

Question:

ashamadhukumar
ashamadhukumar
Teacher
High School - 9th Grade

"As if alive. Will't please you rise? We'll meet

The company below, then. I repeat,"

What does the word 'repeat' in "My Last Duchess" signify?

Rate question:

Posted by ashamadhukumar on Monday November 17, 2008 at 6:45 AM and tagged with meaning, my last duchess, repeat.

Answers:


  1. amy-lepore Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    You need to include the rest of the idea-- "I repeat, the Count your master's known munificence is ample warrant that no just pretence of mine for dowry will be disallowed; though his fair daughter's self, as I avowed at starting, is my object."

    The Duke uses the word "repeat" to reiterate his importance and his becoming accustomed to getting what he wants.  He has proven his worth, his wealth, and his penchant for collecting valuable things. The Duke has basically told the messenger that he knows the Count is generous and that the dowry will be also based on how important a man the Duke is...there are no false claims to be made on his reputation and status, so therefore, the Duke expects the dowry will not be rejected since the Count will be sure it is worthy of the Duke's attention.  He does not like to repeat himself, but for this emissary of the Count whose daughter he hopes to add to his collection, he makes an exception. 

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/last-duchess

    Rate answer:

    Posted by amy-lepore on Monday November 17, 2008 at 9:06 AM


  2. eaglecat Teacher
    High School - 10th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    The word "repeat" is also a slight foreshadowing of what may become of his new duchess to be if she makes the same mistakes as his last duchess.  It serves as a warning to the Count that his daughter should be mindful and submissive, or she may share the same fate as the last duchess.

    Rate answer:

    Posted by eaglecat on Monday November 17, 2008 at 9:14 AM