Most Popular Books by Robert Browning

"Porphyria''s Lover" is Browning''s first ever short dramatic monologue, and also the first of his poems to examine abnormal psychology. In the poem, a man strangles his lover – Porphyria – with her hair. Porphyria''s lover then talks of the corpse''s blue eyes, golden hair, and describes the feeling of perfect happiness the murder gives him. Although he winds her hair around her throat 3 times to throttle her, the woman never cries out. The poem uses a somewhat unusual rhyme scheme: A,B,A,B,B, the final repetition bringing each stanza to a heavy rest. Robert Browning (1812–1889) was an English poet and playwright whose mastery of dramatic verse, and in particular the dramatic monologue, made him one of the foremost Victorian poets. His poems are known for their irony, characterization, dark humor, social commentary, historical settings, and challenging vocabulary and syntax. The speakers in his poems are often musicians or painters whose work functions as a metaphor for poetry. "Porphyria''s Lover" is Browning''s first ever short dramatic monologue, and also the first of his poems to examine abnormal psychology. In the poem, a man strangles his lover – Porphyria – with her hair. Porphyria''s lover then talks of the corpse''s blue eyes, golden hair, and describes the feeling of perfect happiness the murder gives him. Although he winds her hair around her throat 3 times to throttle her, the woman never cries out. The poem uses a somewhat unusual rhyme scheme: A,B,A,B,B, the final repetition bringing each stanza to a heavy rest.

Reproduction of the original: Men and Women by Robert Browning

In "The Pied Piper of Hamelin (Illustrated)," Robert Browning crafts a mesmerizing narrative that intertwines the realms of folklore and moral inquiry. This illustrated poem not only recounts the fascinating tale of a mysterious piper who leads a town''s children away in retribution for unpaid debts but also employs Browning''s hallmark dramatic monologue style. With vivid imagery and rhythmic cadences, the text invites readers into a richly imaginative landscape where themes of trust, authority, and consequence unfold, revealing the moral ambiguities inherent in human relationships and societal obligations. Robert Browning, a prominent figure in Victorian literature, was known for his innovative narrative techniques and psychological depth. His interest in dramatic storytelling, combined with the cultural context of his time—marked by industrial expansion and social upheaval—likely influenced his adaptation of this ancient legend. Browning''s ability to delve into the human psyche and societal norms is evident in this retelling, which reflects both his artistic vision and the complexities of human nature. This captivating work is highly recommended for anyone fascinated by classic literature, moral dilemmas, and the intersection of fantasy and reality. Browning''s poignant verses and the accompanying illustrations breathe new life into this timeless tale, making it an essential read for both young audiences and discerning aficionados of poetry.