Compare and contrast "Porphyria’s Lover" with another of Browning’s dramatic monologues, such as "Johannes Agricola" or "My Last Duchess." What similar patterns can you identify in the writing? How do their tone and style differ?

In "Porphyria’s Lover," what hints indicate that the speaker’s narrative is unreliable, suggesting that his account may not be truthful? What aspects make you skeptical of his version of events?

Conduct research into the psychology behind crimes of passion. Based on your findings, are such crimes only committed by those who are mentally unstable, or can "normal" individuals also be driven to these acts?

Investigate how modern U.S. courts handle sexually-motivated crimes. Explain how a contemporary court would address the crime and criminal depicted in this poem. What do you believe would be a fair punishment for Porphyria’s lover? Justify your response.

Assume the identity of the speaker and draft the defense you would present at your trial to explain the circumstances leading to the murder.

Do you think there is evidence in the poem to suggest that Porphyria is a vampire? If so, what is it? If not, why do you believe this interpretation is unreasonable?

Research the treatment of the criminally insane in England during the 1860s and compare it to their treatment in the United States in 2002. Write a comparative essay describing how the speaker in this poem would be treated in these different eras and locations.