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The story is set in an otherwise-unnamed duchy in Italy, ruled by Duke Alphonso. As the story opens, the Duke and his son and heir Prince Vincentio are both in love with the beautiful Margaret, the daughter of Earl Lasso. Alphonso's plan to marry the girl (though he is much too old for her) is supported by his court favourite Medice, a figure roundly disliked by the other characters. Medice is considered a poseur and vulgarian; though he masquerades as a great lord, he admits that he is illiterate.