Robert Browning 
Porphyria’s Lover 
A Psychological Poem

Robert Browning’s ‘Porphyria’s Lover’ is a dramatic monologue written in the early Victorian period, exploring themes of love, obsession, and violence. The poem tells the story of a man who becomes so consumed by his love for Porphyria that he ultimately chooses to strangle her in order to preserve the moment of passion forever. Browning’s poetic style in this piece is characterized by its psychological depth and exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, as well as its experimentation with form and language. ‘Porphyria’s Lover’ is considered a seminal work in the development of the dramatic monologue as a poetic form. The poem challenges societal norms and raises questions about the nature of love and possession. Robert Browning, known for his innovative and complex poetry, was inspired to write ‘Porphyria’s Lover’ by his interest in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the inner workings of the human mind. This work is recommended for readers interested in Victorian poetry, psychological themes, and the exploration of human nature through literature.