Instans Tyrannus by Robert Browning
A tyrant recounts striking a man he hates, failing to lure him out with riches and pleasures, and arranging his destruction. When the man stands and prays to God, the tyrant pictures him sheltered by the sky and a vast arm, then admits his own fear.
By Robert Browning · Genre: Dramatic Monologue, Narrative Poetry · 754 words
First lines
I
Of the million or two, more or less, / I rule and possess, / One man, for some cause undefined, / Was least to my mind.
Genres
- Dramatic Monologue — The tyrant addresses listeners while recounting his persecution of one man, revealing his hatred, wounded pride, and eventual fear.
- Narrative Poetry — Seven numbered stanzas carry the action from an assault through failed enticements and a destructive plan to the victim's prayer.
Tags
tyranny · persecution · obsession · prayer · abuse of power · dramatic monologue
What this Textopian page supports
Instans Tyrannus is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Browning, dated Date unknown.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Robert Browning
- Date: Date unknown
- Language: English
- Genres: Dramatic Monologue, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 754 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Instans Tyrannus by Robert Browning
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