Measure for Measure By: William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare is a captivating play that explores themes of morality, justice, and the consequences of human desire. Set in Vienna, the story revolves around the Duke’s decision to leave the city and put a strict deputy, Angelo, in charge. Angelo, who initially appears to be a virtuous man, reveals his true nature as a tyrant when he exercises his newfound authority to enforce strict morality laws and harshly punish those who disobey. One of the most interesting aspects of Measure for Measure is its exploration of the complexity and ambiguity of human nature. Shakespeare delves deep into the inner struggles faced by his characters, particularly Isabella, the virtuous sister of Claudio who is sentenced to death for impregnating his fiancée before marriage. Isabella embodies the conflict between personal desires and religious convictions, as she faces the dilemma of whether to sacrifice her own principles to save her brother’s life. Throughout the play, Shakespeare masterfully weaves together a web of deceit, trickery, and mistaken identity, enhancing the plot's intrigue. This is exemplified by the Duke's decision to disguise himself as a friar and observe the unfolding events. This disguise allows him to manipulate the characters and ultimately bring about a resolution that is satisfying, if somewhat unexpected. In Measure for Measure, Shakespeare also comments on the corrupting nature of power and the hypocrisy of those in positions of authority. Through characters like Angelo and even the Duke himself, the play highlights how power can quickly corrupt even the most seemingly virtuous individuals. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of maintaining a just and fair society. Furthermore, Shakespeare’s use of language in Measure for Measure is poetic and captivating as always. The play is rich with profound speeches and soliloquies, allowing the characters to express their innermost thoughts and struggles. Whether it is Isabella's impassioned plea for mercy or the Duke's insightful reflections on the complexities of human nature, the language in Measure for Measure resonates with the reader long after the play has ended. Overall, Measure for Measure is an intriguing and thought-provoking play that delves into complex moral dilemmas, the abuse of power, and the flaws of human nature. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and poetic language, it continues to captivate audiences centuries after its original creation. Shakespeare's exploration of these timeless themes makes Measure for Measure a play that remains both relevant and engrossing in today's society. First Page: Measvre, For Measure Actus primus, Scena prima. Enter Duke, Escalus, Lords. Duke. Escalus Esc. My Lord Duk. Of Gouernment, the properties to vnfold, Would seeme in me t' affect speech & discourse, Since I am put to know, that your owne Science Exceedes (in that) the lists of all aduice My strength can giue you: Then no more remaines But that, to your sufficiency, as your worth is able, And let them worke: The nature of our People, Our Cities Institutions, and the Termes For Common Iustice, y'are as pregnant in As Art, and practise, hath inriched any That we remember: There is our Commission, From which, we would not haue you warpe; call hither, I say, bid come before vs Angelo: What figure of vs thinke you, he will beare. For you must know, we haue with speciall soule Elected him our absence to supply; Lent him our terror, drest him with our loue, And giuen his Deputation all the Organs Of our owne powre: What thinke you of it? Esc. If any in Vienna be of worth To vndergoe such ample grace, and honour, It is Lord Angelo. Enter Angelo. Duk. Looke where he comes Ang. Alwayes obedient to your Graces will, I come to know your pleasure Duke. Angelo: There is a kinde of Character in thy life, That to th' obseruer, doth thy history Fully vnfold: Thy selfe,... Continue reading book >>

Measure for Measure By: William Shakespeare (1564-1616)

Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare is a captivating play that explores themes of morality, justice, and the consequences of human desire. Set in Vienna, the story revolves around the Duke’s decision to leave the city and put a strict deputy, Angelo, in charge. Angelo, who initially appears to be a virtuous man, reveals his true nature as a tyrant when he exercises his newfound authority to enforce strict morality laws and harshly punish those who disobey.

One of the most interesting aspects of Measure for Measure is its exploration of the complexity and ambiguity of human nature. Shakespeare delves deep into the inner struggles faced by his characters, particularly Isabella, the virtuous sister of Claudio who is sentenced to death for impregnating his fiancée before marriage. Isabella embodies the conflict between personal desires and religious convictions, as she faces the dilemma of whether to sacrifice her own principles to save her brother’s life.

Throughout the play, Shakespeare masterfully weaves together a web of deceit, trickery, and mistaken identity, enhancing the plot's intrigue. This is exemplified by the Duke's decision to disguise himself as a friar and observe the unfolding events. This disguise allows him to manipulate the characters and ultimately bring about a resolution that is satisfying, if somewhat unexpected.

In Measure for Measure, Shakespeare also comments on the corrupting nature of power and the hypocrisy of those in positions of authority. Through characters like Angelo and even the Duke himself, the play highlights how power can quickly corrupt even the most seemingly virtuous individuals. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of maintaining a just and fair society.

Furthermore, Shakespeare’s use of language in Measure for Measure is poetic and captivating as always. The play is rich with profound speeches and soliloquies, allowing the characters to express their innermost thoughts and struggles. Whether it is Isabella's impassioned plea for mercy or the Duke's insightful reflections on the complexities of human nature, the language in Measure for Measure resonates with the reader long after the play has ended.

Overall, Measure for Measure is an intriguing and thought-provoking play that delves into complex moral dilemmas, the abuse of power, and the flaws of human nature. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and poetic language, it continues to captivate audiences centuries after its original creation. Shakespeare's exploration of these timeless themes makes Measure for Measure a play that remains both relevant and engrossing in today's society.

First Page:

Measvre, For Measure

Actus primus, Scena prima.

Enter Duke, Escalus, Lords.

Duke. Escalus

Esc. My Lord

Duk. Of Gouernment, the properties to vnfold, Would seeme in me t' affect speech & discourse, Since I am put to know, that your owne Science Exceedes (in that) the lists of all aduice My strength can giue you: Then no more remaines But that, to your sufficiency, as your worth is able, And let them worke: The nature of our People, Our Cities Institutions, and the Termes For Common Iustice, y'are as pregnant in As Art, and practise, hath inriched any That we remember: There is our Commission, From which, we would not haue you warpe; call hither, I say, bid come before vs Angelo: What figure of vs thinke you, he will beare. For you must know, we haue with speciall soule Elected him our absence to supply; Lent him our terror, drest him with our loue, And giuen his Deputation all the Organs Of our owne powre: What thinke you of it? Esc. If any in Vienna be of worth To vndergoe such ample grace, and honour, It is Lord Angelo.

Enter Angelo.

Duk. Looke where he comes

Ang. Alwayes obedient to your Graces will, I come to know your pleasure

Duke. Angelo: There is a kinde of Character in thy life, That to th' obseruer, doth thy history Fully vnfold: Thy selfe,... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Comedy
Literature
Play

eBook links
Wikipedia – William Shakespeare
Wikipedia – Measure for Measure

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