The Ring and the Book

The Ring and the Book

The Ring and the Book is a long narrative poem by Robert Browning, published in 1868-69. It is a dramatic poem that tells the story of a legal case in Rome in the 17th century. The poem is divided into twelve books, each of which is narrated by a different character. The first book is narrated by an anonymous narrator who introduces the story and sets the scene. The second book is narrated by Guido, the protagonist of the story, who is accused of murdering his wife and her lover. The third book is narrated by Pompilia, Guido's wife, who tells her story of how she was forced into an arranged marriage with Guido and how she was abused by him. The fourth book is narrated by Caponsacchi, Pompilia's lover, who tells his story of how he fell in love with Pompilia and how he tried to protect her from Guido. The fifth book is narrated by the Pope, who is the judge in the case and who gives his verdict. The sixth book is narrated by the Canon, who is the lawyer for the defense. The seventh book is narrated by the Abate, who is the lawyer for the prosecution. The eighth book is narrated by the Friar, who is a witness in the case. The ninth book is narrated by the Governor, who is the judge in the appeal. The tenth book is narrated by the Count, who is the lawyer for the defense in the appeal. The eleventh book is narrated by the Advocate, who is the lawyer for the prosecution in the appeal. The twelfth book is narrated by the narrator again, who gives his opinion on the case and its outcome. The poem is a complex exploration of justice, morality, and human nature. It is a powerful and moving work that has been praised for its psychological insight and its vivid characterization.

By Robert Browning · First published 1868 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Drama · 12 chapters

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