Measure for Measure

Definition

Measure for Measure is a play by William Shakespeare, written around 1604, that explores themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature. The title reflects the idea of retributive justice, where actions and consequences are measured against one another, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by characters in their pursuit of fairness and virtue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play centers around Duke Vincentio, who disguises himself as a friar to observe the moral decay of Vienna and how justice is administered.
2. Isabella, a key character, represents the conflict between mercy and justice when she pleads for her brother Claudio's life after he is sentenced to death for fornication.
3. The character of Angelo serves as a strict enforcer of the law, showcasing the tension between authority and personal morality throughout the play.
4. Measure for Measure raises important questions about the nature of power, control, and the potential for corruption within legal systems.
5. The ending of the play is notable for its ambiguous resolution, where issues of justice and forgiveness leave audiences questioning what true measure is in matters of right and wrong.

Review Questions

• How does Measure for Measure reflect the theme of justice through its characters and their actions?
  • In Measure for Measure, the theme of justice is central to the characters' conflicts and decisions. Duke Vincentio's disguised observation allows him to assess how justice is administered in Vienna, revealing the flaws in the legal system. Angelo's strict enforcement of laws contrasts with Isabella's moral pleas, highlighting the struggle between rigid justice and compassion. These dynamics force characters to confront their beliefs about fairness, ultimately prompting audiences to consider what true justice entails.
• Discuss the significance of dramatic irony in Measure for Measure and how it impacts the audience's understanding of character motivations.
  • Dramatic irony plays a crucial role in Measure for Measure as it allows the audience to see deeper truths about characters that they themselves are unaware of. For instance, while Angelo believes he can impose strict moral standards on others, viewers recognize his hypocrisy when he succumbs to temptation. This tension enhances the audience's engagement with the narrative by revealing layers of complexity in character motivations and actions. It ultimately emphasizes themes of morality and human fallibility within the play.
• Evaluate how Shakespeare uses the structure of measure for measure to comment on societal norms and personal ethics in his time.
  • Shakespeare's Measure for Measure critiques societal norms by juxtaposing law with individual morality. The play's structure reflects this tension, as characters navigate legalistic constraints while grappling with personal ethics. Through situations like Isabella's plea for mercy and Angelo's moral failures, Shakespeare exposes inconsistencies in societal standards during his era. This duality invites audiences to question the effectiveness and fairness of contemporary legal practices while reflecting on enduring themes of justice, authority, and human behavior.

Related terms

Dramatic Irony: A literary device where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters, creating tension and engagement as characters navigate their challenges.

Comedy: A genre of literature characterized by humor and often featuring misunderstandings or mistaken identities, which leads to a happy resolution.

Tragicomedy: A genre that blends elements of both tragedy and comedy, allowing for serious themes to be addressed while also providing moments of humor and lightheartedness.