Contextual Homework for Group 2

You need to continue to develop your originality of analysis and interpretation when evaluating the moral, philosophical and social influences that affect the writing and understanding of a poem. To do this, you need to firstly be able to research the contextual influences on both the writing and reception of the poetry and then explore the details whilst attempting to make connections with the poet’s intended meaning.

You are to research the life and times of Browning. The focus of this task should be on the contextual influences on his poetry, not solely the historical details of the time.

Possible areas for exploration are:

Themes and motifs in his poems
Contextual/historical details that link to gothic elements within his text (especially grotesque imagery/actions)
Contextual details/issues that feed into the psychological elements within his poem (evil and violence in particular)
Cultural tastes and interests that have influenced his poetry
Philosophical underpinnings that have influenced his poetry