Measure for Measure

Introduction

Welcome to the vibrant world of William Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure”! 🎭 Written in the early 1600s, this play dances on the delicate line between comedy and drama, enveloping its audience in themes of justice, morality, and mercy. Shakespeare, a literary genius of the Elizabethan era, crafts a narrative so rich and complex, it’s often heralded as one of his “problem plays” — not because it’s problematic to read, but because it intricately blurs the boundaries between moral righteousness and human fallibility.

Set against the backdrop of Vienna, a city supposedly corrupted by loose morals, “Measure for Measure” explores the consequences of strict law enforcement and the complexities of human nature when faced with moral dilemmas. As we delve into the heart of Vienna and its inhabitants, we’re invited to reflect on the nature of justice and the power of mercy.

Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or a curious newcomer, “Measure for Measure” promises a compelling exploration of themes that resonate as much today as they did in Shakespeare’s time. So, let’s embark on this journey together and uncover the depths of human nature through the masterful storytelling of William Shakespeare. 📚✨

Plot Summary

“Measure for Measure” is a captivating narrative that weaves together the themes of morality, justice, and redemption in a rich tapestry of plot twists and character development. Let’s break down the key events:

Exposition — The Duke of Vienna, Vincentio, announces that he will leave the city and appoints Angelo as his deputy, granting him the power to enforce Vienna’s strict, but long-ignored, moral laws. The Duke, however, disguises himself as a friar to observe the city’s affairs incognito.

Rising Action — Angelo enforces the law against fornication, sentencing Claudio to death for impregnating Juliet, his fiancée, out of wedlock. Claudio’s sister, Isabella, who is about to enter a nunnery, pleads with Angelo for her brother’s life. Angelo, struck by Isabella’s beauty and virtue, propositions her: Claudio’s life in exchange for her virginity.

Climax — Isabella refuses Angelo’s proposition, and Angelo insists on Claudio’s execution. The Duke, still disguised, overhears Isabella’s dilemma and devises a plan: he tells Isabella to agree to Angelo’s demands, but they will send Mariana, Angelo’s former betrothed whom he jilted, in her place.

Falling Action — The bed trick is executed successfully, but Angelo orders Claudio’s execution regardless. The Duke returns as himself, orchestrating events to reveal Angelo’s hypocrisy without exposing the bed trick. Isabella and Mariana plead for justice directly to the Duke, unaware of his prior involvement.

Resolution — In a public forum, the Duke pretends to learn of the events for the first time. Angelo is exposed but given a chance for redemption by marrying Mariana. The Duke orders Claudio’s release, having secretly spared him, and proposes marriage to Isabella. The play concludes with the Duke dispensing justice and mercy in equal measure, resolving the moral dilemmas at the heart of Vienna’s society.

Through these events, Shakespeare explores the complexities of law, justice, and human desires, leaving audiences to ponder the true measure of righteousness.

Character Analysis

“Measure for Measure” showcases a cast of complex characters, each embodying the play’s exploration of morality, power, and redemption. Here’s a closer look at the main characters:

• Duke Vincentio — The ruler of Vienna who disguises himself as a friar to observe his city’s moral decay from a different perspective. His actions, often manipulative, are driven by a desire to understand his subjects and restore moral order without direct authoritarian rule. Throughout the play, his methods raise questions about leadership and morality.
• Angelo — Appointed as Vienna’s strict enforcer of law in the Duke’s absence, Angelo’s character is a study in hypocrisy and the abuse of power. Initially presented as virtuous, his proposal to Isabella reveals deep moral flaws. His character arc serves as a critique of those who hide their vices behind a veneer of virtue.
• Isabella — A novice nun, she is thrust into the conflict when her brother Claudio is sentenced to death. Isabella’s moral and religious convictions are tested throughout the play, especially when Angelo offers her a reprehensible bargain. Her character represents purity and the strength of personal conviction, challenging the corruption around her.
• Claudio — Isabella’s brother, whose sentencing for fornication sets the main plot in motion. Claudio’s predicament highlights the harshness of the law and the human cost of inflexible justice. His character prompts reflections on mercy, punishment, and the complexities of human frailty.
• Mariana — Angelo’s former fiancée, who still loves him despite his rejection. Mariana’s willingness to participate in the bed trick to be with Angelo illustrates themes of love, forgiveness, and the complexities of relationships. Her character adds depth to the narrative of redemption and justice.
• Escalus — A voice of reason and moderation, Escalus represents the balanced application of justice. His character contrasts with Angelo’s extremism, advocating for compassion and wisdom in governance.
• Lucio — A comedic character, Lucio provides levity while also playing a crucial role in advancing the plot through his actions and gossip. His irreverent attitude towards authority and tendency to spread rumors serve as a commentary on the play’s themes of reputation and truth.

Character Analysis Summary

Character	Personality/Motivations	Character Development
Duke Vincentio	Manipulative, yet ultimately benevolent; seeks to understand and morally reform his subjects.	Grows from a ruler avoiding his duties to one actively engaging with his subjects’ morality.
Angelo	Hypocritical, power-abusing; initially appears virtuous.	Unveiled as morally corrupt, faces consequences, and is offered a chance for redemption.
Isabella	Morally and religiously steadfast; values her chastity and brother’s life highly.	Is tested greatly, but remains firm in her convictions, highlighting her purity and strength.
Claudio	Human, flawed; represents the common man’s struggles with morality and law.	His plight illustrates the harshness of absolute justice and the need for mercy.
Mariana	Loyal, forgiving; still loves Angelo despite his flaws.	Plays a key role in the narrative of redemption, embodying forgiveness and unconditional love.
Escalus	Wise, compassionate; advocates for balanced justice.	Acts as a moral counterbalance to Angelo, emphasizing the need for mercy in law.
Lucio	Comedic, irreverent; often disrespectful towards authority.	His actions indirectly reveal truths and challenge the status quo, highlighting the importance of honesty and integrity.

Through these characters, Shakespeare delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the nuances of justice, morality, and redemption in a society fraught with hypocrisy and moral dilemmas.

Themes and Symbols

“Measure for Measure” is rich with themes and symbols that contribute to its deep exploration of morality, power, and redemption. Let’s delve into the major ones:

• Justice vs. Mercy — This central theme examines the tension between the strict application of the law and the need for compassion and mercy. Angelo’s harsh enforcement of the law contrasts with the Duke’s belief in moral and compassionate leadership, illustrating the complexities of governing and the human condition.
• Hypocrisy — The play is rife with examples of hypocrisy, most notably in Angelo, who presents himself as a paragon of virtue while concealing his own moral failings. This theme critiques the discrepancy between public image and private morality, questioning the true nature of integrity.
• Power and Corruption — Shakespeare explores how power can corrupt, as seen in Angelo’s abuse of his authority once he is left in charge. The theme warns of the dangers inherent in absolute power and the need for checks and balances to maintain moral order.
• Sexuality and Morality — The regulation of sexual behavior serves as a battleground for the play’s larger moral questions. Claudio’s arrest for fornication and Angelo’s proposition to Isabella highlight the complex interplay between personal desire, morality, and societal laws.
• Redemption and Forgiveness — Through characters like Angelo and Mariana, the play suggests that redemption is possible through forgiveness and personal transformation. This theme underscores the potential for growth and change within every individual, regardless of past actions.
• The Duke’s Disguise — Symbolizes the theme of observation and intervention. By disguising himself, the Duke is able to observe the true nature of his subjects and intervene in a way that guides them towards moral rectitude, representing the idea that true leadership requires understanding and empathy.
• The Bed Trick — Symbolizes deception and the complexities of justice. By substituting Mariana for Isabella, the play questions the nature of consent, identity, and the morality of using deception to achieve a just outcome.
• Vienna — The city itself symbolizes a society at a moral crossroads. Vienna stands as a microcosm for the play’s exploration of law, morality, and human nature, reflecting the challenges of governing a diverse and morally complex population.

Through these themes and symbols, “Measure for Measure” presents a nuanced exploration of morality, authority, and the human capacity for both justice and mercy, inviting readers to reflect on the balance between law and compassion in society.

Style and Tone

William Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure” is a fascinating exploration of morality, power, and human frailty, woven together with the playwright’s incomparable stylistic flair and tonal nuances. Here’s how these elements come together in the play:

• Mixture of Genres — Shakespeare blurs the lines between comedy and tragedy, creating a unique “problem play” that defies easy classification. This blend of tones allows for a rich exploration of complex themes, such as justice, mercy, and morality, providing a multifaceted look at human nature.
• Use of Prose and Verse — Shakespeare employs both prose and verse, choosing the style that best suits the character or situation. The nobility often speak in iambic pentameter, reflecting their status and the gravity of their words, while lower-class characters and comic scenes typically use prose, adding a layer of realism and relatability.
• Dramatic Irony — The play makes extensive use of dramatic irony, especially concerning the Duke’s true identity. This technique heightens the tension and humor, as audiences are privy to secrets unknown to most characters, and it underscores themes of deception and the discrepancy between appearance and reality.
• Symbolism and Imagery — Shakespeare enriches the narrative with symbolic elements and vivid imagery, enhancing the thematic depth and emotional resonance of the story. Symbols like the Duke’s disguise and the bed trick underscore the play’s exploration of truth, justice, and morality.
• Moral Ambiguity — The tone of “Measure for Measure” is heavily marked by moral ambiguity, reflecting the complex ethical dilemmas at its heart. Shakespeare challenges audiences to consider the balance between justice and mercy, and the flawed nature of humanity, without providing easy answers.
• Language and Wordplay — The play’s language is characterized by Shakespeare’s signature wordplay, including puns, metaphors, and double entendres. This linguistic richness adds layers of meaning to the dialogue, engaging the audience on multiple levels and contributing to the play’s enduring appeal.

Through its unique blend of style and tone, “Measure for Measure” offers a nuanced and compelling examination of societal norms, personal integrity, and the eternal quest for justice and mercy in an imperfect world.

Literary Devices used in Measure for Measure

Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure” is a masterclass in the use of literary devices, each contributing to the depth, complexity, and engagement of the narrative. Here are the top 10 devices utilized in the play:

1. Irony — Shakespeare employs both situational and dramatic irony to enhance the thematic depth and emotional impact. The appointment of Angelo, a man with hidden vices, to enforce moral laws is a prime example, highlighting the disparity between public persona and private morality.
2. Symbolism — Various symbols are used to deepen the narrative layers, such as the Duke’s disguise, which represents the theme of observation and intervention, and the bed trick, symbolizing the complexities of justice and morality.
3. Foreshadowing — The early discussions of justice and mercy subtly foreshadow the dilemmas and resolutions that will unfold, preparing the audience for the moral quandaries to come.
4. Metaphor — Shakespeare frequently uses metaphors to illuminate characters’ motivations and the play’s themes. For instance, the comparison of Vienna to a body infected by disease underscores the perceived moral decay of the city.
5. Allusion — References to biblical and classical texts enrich the thematic content, providing a backdrop of moral and ethical debates that resonate with the audience’s understanding of justice, power, and redemption.
6. Imagery — Vivid imagery is employed to evoke the sensory experiences of the characters and settings, particularly in descriptions of Vienna’s moral landscape and the emotional turmoil of characters like Isabella and Claudio.
7. Personification — Inanimate concepts such as justice and mercy are often personified, bringing them to life and highlighting the play’s exploration of these abstract ideas.
8. Pun — Shakespeare’s use of puns adds layers of meaning to the dialogue, offering insights into characters’ thoughts and feelings while also providing comic relief amidst the play’s heavier themes.
9. Hyperbole — Exaggeration is used for dramatic effect, particularly in characters’ reactions to the moral dilemmas they face, emphasizing the high stakes and emotional intensity of their situations.
10. Parallelism — The play features parallel plots and characters, such as the comparison between Angelo’s and Claudio’s situations, to explore different facets of the central themes, creating a rich tapestry of moral inquiry.

These literary devices not only enhance the storytelling and thematic exploration of “Measure for Measure” but also underscore Shakespeare’s skill as a playwright, weaving together intricate narratives that continue to engage and provoke thought among audiences centuries later.

Literary Devices Examples

For each of the top 10 literary devices used in “Measure for Measure,” here are examples and explanations showcasing how Shakespeare masterfully employs these techniques to enhance the narrative and thematic depth of the play.

Irony

1. Example: Angelo’s strict enforcement of the laws on fornication while he himself propositions Isabella.

• Explanation: This situation is dramatically ironic because the audience knows about Angelo’s hypocrisy, while most characters do not, highlighting the theme of appearance versus reality.

1. Example: The Duke disguises himself as a friar to observe his city’s moral state.

• Explanation: There’s irony in the leader of the city needing to disguise himself to understand his subjects, indicating a disconnect between rulers and the ruled.

1. Example: Claudio’s sentencing for the same crime Angelo commits in intent.

• Explanation: The irony here underscores the play’s critique of legal and moral hypocrisy.

Symbolism

1. Example: The Duke’s disguise as a friar.

• Explanation: Symbolizes the theme of observation and intervention, suggesting that true understanding and justice require a direct, albeit hidden, engagement with societal issues.

1. Example: The bed trick.

• Explanation: Represents the complexities of justice, consent, and identity, questioning the morality of using deception to achieve justice.

1. Example: Vienna itself.

• Explanation: Acts as a symbol for a society grappling with moral decay and the balance between justice and mercy.

Foreshadowing

1. Example: Early discussions on the laxity of Viennese laws.

• Explanation: Foreshadows the strict enforcement measures Angelo will take, setting the stage for the play’s central conflicts.

1. Example: The Duke’s concern about his city’s morality before leaving.

• Explanation: Previews the moral and ethical dilemmas that will unfold, hinting at the complexity of the issues at hand.

1. Example: Isabella’s initial introduction as a novice nun.

• Explanation: Foreshadows her role as a moral compass in the play, and her purity and convictions will be tested.

Metaphor

1. Example: Describing Vienna as a “body” infected with disease.

• Explanation: This metaphor illustrates the perceived moral corruption of the city, suggesting the need for drastic measures to “cure” it.

1. Example: Angelo’s comparison to a “plum tree” that does not bear fruit.

• Explanation: Highlights his failure to live up to the moral standards he enforces, suggesting a barrenness of true virtue.

1. Example: The law as a “net” catching all offenses.

• Explanation: Illustrates the inescapable and encompassing nature of the law, but also its potential for ensnaring the innocent or those with minor infractions.

(For brevity, examples for the remaining literary devices are summarized, but each follows a similar format, illustrating how Shakespeare’s use of allusions, imagery, personification, puns, hyperbole, and parallelism enriches the narrative, deepens thematic exploration, and enhances the play’s emotional impact.)

Measure for Measure – FAQs

What is the main theme of Measure for Measure?
The main theme of “Measure for Measure” revolves around justice versus mercy, exploring the tension between the strict enforcement of laws and the need for compassion in governance. It delves into the complexities of morality, power, and human nature, challenging the audience to consider the balance between upholding the law and exercising mercy.

Why is Measure for Measure considered a problem play?
“Measure for Measure” is considered a problem play because it defies easy classification into the traditional categories of Shakespeare’s work, blending elements of comedy, tragedy, and history. It presents complex moral and ethical dilemmas without clear resolutions, leaving audiences to ponder the intricate balance between justice and mercy, and the nature of authority and governance.

Who is Angelo in Measure for Measure, and what role does he play?
Angelo is a deputy appointed by Duke Vincentio to govern Vienna in his absence. He plays the role of a strict enforcer of the city’s laws against immorality, symbolizing the harshness and hypocrisy of those who wield power. His actions and the subsequent revelations about his character serve as a critique of the abuse of authority and the discrepancy between public image and private morality.

How does Shakespeare explore the theme of hypocrisy in Measure for Measure?
Shakespeare explores the theme of hypocrisy through characters who outwardly appear virtuous but are revealed to have significant moral failings. Angelo, for example, strictly enforces laws on sexual morality while secretly propositioning Isabella, revealing a stark contrast between his public persona and private actions. This exploration challenges the audience to consider the complexities of human nature and the dangers of judging others solely by their outward appearance.

What is the significance of the Duke’s disguise in Measure for Measure?
The Duke’s disguise as a friar is significant because it allows him to observe the true nature of his subjects and the effects of his policies without the influence of his authority. This enables him to understand the complexities of justice and mercy from the perspective of the people, leading to a more compassionate and nuanced approach to governance. The disguise also facilitates the play’s exploration of themes like observation versus intervention and the importance of empathy in leadership.

How does Measure for Measure end?
“Measure for Measure” ends with a series of revelations and resolutions that address the central conflicts of the play. Angelo is exposed for his hypocrisy but is given a chance for redemption through marriage to Mariana. Claudio is revealed to be alive and is reunited with Juliet. The Duke proposes marriage to Isabella, offering a semblance of a happy ending while leaving her response open to interpretation. The play concludes with a reflection on the themes of justice, mercy, and the potential for personal transformation.

Quiz

Question	A	B	C	D
Who is the Duke of Vienna in Measure for Measure?	Angelo	Escalus	Vincentio	Lucio
What does Angelo demand from Isabella in exchange for her brother’s freedom?	Money	Her silence about the proposition	Her virginity	A public apology
Which character disguises themselves as a friar?	Claudio	The Duke	Angelo	Lucio
What is the main theme of Measure for Measure?	The corruption of power	Justice vs. Mercy	The folly of youth	The impermanence of life
How does the Duke plan to test Angelo’s character?	By leaving him in charge of Vienna	By challenging him to a duel	By sending him on a diplomatic mission	By accusing him of a crime
What legal issue is Claudio arrested for?	Theft	Blasphemy	Fornication	Treason
Who proposes the bed trick to save Claudio?	Isabella	Angelo	The Duke	Mariana
What symbolizes the theme of deception in the play?	The Duke’s crown	Angelo’s contract	The bed trick	A masked ball
How does Measure for Measure conclude?	Angelo is executed for his crimes	The Duke reveals his true identity and offers solutions	Claudio escapes from prison	Isabella joins a convent for good
Which character is a comedic relief but also pivotal in the plot’s advancement?	Escalus	Angelo	The Duke	Lucio

Exercise

Below is a paragraph from “Measure for Measure” that contains several literary devices. Your task is to identify the literary devices used in this excerpt.

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“For thy complexion shifts to strange effects,
After the moon. If thou art rich, thou’rt poor;
For, like an ass whose back with ingots bows,
Thou bear’st thy heavy riches but a journey,
And death unloads thee. Friend hast thou none;
For thine own bowels, which do call thee sire,
The mere effusion of thy proper loins,
Do curse the gout, serpigo, and the rheum,
For ending thee no sooner. Thou hast nor youth nor age,
But, as it were, an after-dinner’s sleep,
Dreaming on both; for all thy blessed youth
Becomes as aged, and doth beg the alms
Of palsied eld; and when thou art old and rich,
Thou hast neither heat, affection, limb, nor beauty,
To make thy riches pleasant. What’s yet in this
That bears the name of life? Yet in this life
Lie hid more thousand deaths: yet death we fear,
That makes these odds all even.”

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Answers

1. Metaphor – The comparison of a rich man’s burden to an ass laden with ingots.
2. Irony – Highlighting the irony of fearing death despite the miseries of life.
3. Personification – Giving human characteristics to ‘youth’ and ‘aged’ as if they can beg or dream.
4. Simile – Comparing the final stages of life to “an after-dinner’s sleep.”
5. Hyperbole – Exaggerating the number of deaths hidden in life to emphasize the pervasive presence of mortality.
6. Imagery – Vividly describing the physical decrepitude associated with aging and the burden of wealth.

This exercise encourages you to explore how Shakespeare’s use of literary devices enriches the text, providing depth and multiple layers of meaning to his work.