Question

What is the Duke’s primary objective in speaking to the Count’s envoy?

• A. To confess his guilt
• B. To warn the envoy
• C. To negotiate a dowry and marriage
• D. To praise the Duchess

Answer 1

Answer:

C. To negotiate a dowry and marriage

The Duke speaks to the envoy of the Count, whose daughter he wants to marry. He mentions the dowry:

"The Count your master’s known munificence / Is ample warrant that no just pretense / Of mine for dowry will be disallowed."

But he also quickly adds:

"Though his fair daughter’s self, as I avowed / At starting, is my object."

This suggests that while he pretends to value her, he’s very concerned about wealth and status.