The document discusses the character of the Duke Vincentio in Shakespeare's play "Measure for Measure". It describes the Duke as a complex and contradictory character that is portrayed as both a Machiavellian prince and a god-like figure. The Duke manipulates other characters and pulls the strings of events in the play for controversial motives. There is debate around whether the Duke enjoys watching others suffer or is testing the concepts of power, law, and justice in Vienna. Contradiction and the theme of appearance vs reality are key aspects of the play and the ambiguous nature of the Duke's character.