Porphyria's Lover: Themes and Analysis

On a stormy night, Porphyria enters a cottage, bringing warmth and comfort. She expresses her love and vulnerability to the narrator, who realizes her devotion. In a sudden decision, he strangles her to preserve the moment of her love. The narrator reflects on his actions, believing that Porphyria is now eternally his, and notes that God has not intervened.

What is the initial setting of the poem?

• A sunny day

• A stormy night

• A calm evening

• A snowy morning

How does Porphyria change the atmosphere upon her arrival?

• She brings warmth and light

• She makes it colder

• She leaves immediately

• She causes more chaos

What does Porphyria do to make the cottage warm?

• She turns on a heater

• She brings in blankets

• She closes the windows

• She lights a fire

What does Porphyria struggle with in expressing her love?

• Her own doubts

• Societal constraints

• The narrator's indifference

• Her family's disapproval

What does Porphyria do to show her affection to the narrator?

• She sings a song

• She puts his arm around her waist

• She writes a letter

• She cooks a meal

What realization does the narrator come to about Porphyria?

• She is indifferent

• She loves him deeply

• She is unhappy

• She wants to leave

What is the narrator's emotional state after realizing Porphyria's love?

• Proud and happy

• Indifferent

• Angry

• Confused

What drastic action does the narrator take?

• He confesses his love

• He strangles Porphyria

• He calls for help

• He leaves the cottage

What does the narrator do with Porphyria's hair?

• He winds it around her throat

• He braids it

• He cuts it

• He lets it fall freely

How does the narrator reassure himself after his action?

• He plans to leave

• He regrets his decision

• He thinks she will wake up

• He believes she felt no pain