In Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess," we see a depiction of the egotistical and power-hungry Duke of Ferrara. Although the duke's monologue appears to be about his late wife, a close reading reveals that her mention is only a footnote in his self-important speech. The duke believes that he is so great because he has conquered Milan and will continue to conquer other cities until he is defeated by an army of peasants led by Prince Galesio. In reality, the duke is nothing but a coward who uses force to achieve his goals. The duke thinks himself to be so powerful that he can dispose of his wife's family without worrying about reprisals. However, the Duchess Eleanor is a woman of spirit who refuses to bend to the will of her husband. When she hears rumors that the duke has had her father imprisoned, she goes to Milan to find out the truth for herself. Once there, she confronts her husband who orders her arrested on charges of treason. The duke then calls a meeting of his generals to tell them that since his wife has betrayed him, he no longer needs their services. He then sends word to all his townships that any soldier who kills his wife will go unpunished. Within a few days, the duke realizes what a stupid move this was when letters begin pouring into his court from soldiers around Italy telling their stories.