English Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

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Prepare for the CLEP English Literature Exam with quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes useful hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

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What is the main theme in “My Last Duchess” by Robert Browning?

Greed
Possessiveness
Loss
Jealousy

The correct answer is: Possessiveness

The poem "My Last Duchess" touches on multiple themes, such as power, control and privilege. However, the main theme is that of possessiveness. The Duke is possessive of his late wife, treating her portrait as an object to be shown off and controlled. This theme is evident throughout the poem, from the Duke's descriptions of his wife's behavior and his jealousy towards her perceived flirtations, to his ultimate decision to have her killed for not being obedient enough. Greed, loss, and jealousy may also be present in the poem, but they are not the main theme. Greed is not explicitly mentioned and is not a driving force behind the Duke's actions. While there is loss in the poem (the loss of the Duke's first wife and his loss of control over her), it is not the main theme as it is overshadowed by the theme of possessiveness. Jealous