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influence. Also gender perception influences deceptive behavior, which is linked to pervasive
gender stereotypes: women are typically viewed as weaker and more gullible than men."
Palomäki et al. argue that men deceive in order to make themselves look better, and that gender
stereotypes, like women being viewed as the weaker sex, affect deceptive behavior. (Palomäki et
al.)

Through the character of Duke Vincentio in Measure for Measure, one can see that
indeed, the Duke does follow the argument set forth by Palomäki et al. that men deceive in order
to bolster their status and influence. The play instantly begins with Duke Vincentio setting up his
first trick, leaving his deputy, Angelo, in charge while he is supposedly out of town. Duke
Vincentio hopes that Angelo will restore the law and order, which he has not enforced, in town
and enforce the old and forgotten laws that are still technically valid. Duke Vincentio hopes that
Angelo will do so without smearing his image so that he may continue to be the benevolent Duke
that his people know and love.

“…indeed, my father,
I have on Angelo imposed the office;
Who may, in the ambush of my name, strike home,
And yet my nature never in the fight
To do in slander” (1.3.39-43).
The Duke confessed his plan to the Friar without holding anything back. Duke Vincentio is not
shy about the fact that he wants others to do the dirty work for him, but expects to get all of the
love, admiration, but most importantly the credit.
Within the Duke’s initial trick another trick quickly develops. Angelo has effectively
been restoring law and order while enforcing old and forgotten laws. After meeting a woman