Shakespeare: Measure for Measure | notes

 Measure for Measure is a play written by William Shakespeare, first performed in 1604, which is categorized as one of his “problem plays.” This play has been the subject of much critical debate, particularly surrounding its ambiguous nature, its thematic and philosophical complexities, and its sometimes troubling portrayal of gender and sexuality. This essay will appraise Measure for Measure by examining its plot, themes, characters, and language, and consider its significance and relevance to contemporary audiences.

The plot of Measure for Measure is set in Vienna, where Duke Vincentio decides to leave his position of power in the city to the strict and puritanical Angelo, under the pretence of taking a leave of absence. In reality, however, he disguises himself as a friar, and stays in Vienna to observe how Angelo manages his new role. Claudio, a young man, has been imprisoned for impregnating his fiancé, Juliet, before their marriage, which has been deemed a criminal offence. Angelo is determined to enforce the strict laws against fornication and issues Claudio with the death sentence, despite the fact that his actions were not particularly egregious. Claudio’s sister, Claudio’s sister, Isabella, a novice nun, pleads with Angelo to spare her brother’s life, and Angelo agrees to do so on the condition that she sleeps with him. Isabella refuses, and instead seeks help from the disguised Duke Vincentio, who orchestrates a complex plot to bring Angelo to justice and free Claudio.

One of the central themes of Measure for Measure is justice, and the play questions the legitimacy of laws that are rigidly enforced without consideration for extenuating circumstances or the consequences of such laws. Shakespeare portrays a world in which the law is harsh and inflexible, and those who hold power can use it to abuse and exploit those who are weaker. Angelo, the new ruler of Vienna, is portrayed as a strict and puritanical enforcer of the law, who is more interested in asserting his power than in administering justice. His harsh treatment of Claudio, who has committed a relatively minor offence, highlights the arbitrary and capricious nature of the law, which can be interpreted and applied in different ways depending on the interests of those in power.

Another important theme of the play is sexual morality, and the conflict between personal desire and social norms. The play explores the idea of sexual desire as a natural and uncontrollable force, which can lead to the breaking of social norms and laws. Shakespeare portrays sexuality as a powerful force that can have both positive and negative consequences, depending on how it is managed and controlled..

Isabella, the novice nun, embodies the conflict between desire and morality, as she struggles to reconcile her desire to save her brother’s life with her commitment to her religious vows. Angelo, on the other hand, is portrayed as a hypocrite, who uses his power to exploit and manipulate others for his own sexual gratification, while publicly espousing strict moral principles.

Gender is another important theme in Measure for Measure, and the play has been the subject of much critical debate regarding its portrayal of women. Some critics have argued that the play is misogynistic, as it portrays women as passive and submissive, who are often victimised by male characters. Isabella, in particular, has been the subject of much criticism, as she is portrayed as a chaste and virtuous woman who is completely subservient to the male characters in the play.

 However, other critics have argued that Shakespeare’s portrayal of gender is more complex than this, and that the play can be read as a critique of the patriarchal society in which it is set. Isabella, for example, can be seen as a strong and intelligent woman who is able to stand up to the male characters in the play and assert her own agency.