Measure For Measure Summary – A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

William Shakespeare’s play “Measure for Measure” is a complex story of justice, morality, and power. The play is set in Vienna, where the Duke decides to take a break from his duties and leaves a strict deputy, Angelo, in charge. Angelo decides to enforce the law strictly and punish anyone who violates it. However, his hypocrisy is exposed when he tries to force a nun, Isabella, to sleep with him in exchange for her brother’s release from prison. This article will provide a detailed summary of the play, exploring its themes, characters, and plot.

The Plot

The play begins with the Duke of Vienna announcing to his people that he is leaving the city and appointing Angelo as his deputy. The Duke, however, disguises himself as a friar and observes the events in the city. Angelo, who is known for his strictness, immediately starts enforcing the law and arrests Claudio, Isabella’s brother, for having sex with his fiancée before marriage. Claudio is sentenced to death, and Isabella, a novice nun, goes to Angelo to plead for her brother’s life. Angelo, who is secretly attracted to Isabella, offers to release Claudio in exchange for her sleeping with him. Isabella, who is appalled by Angelo’s proposal, refuses and decides to tell Claudio about it. Meanwhile, the Duke, disguised as a friar, helps Isabella by advising her to trick Angelo into believing that he has slept with her. The plan works, and Angelo is exposed for his hypocrisy. The Duke then reveals his true identity and takes charge of the situation. He pardons Claudio and orders Angelo to marry Mariana, his abandoned fiancée. The play ends with the Duke proposing to Isabella, who decides to join a convent instead.

Themes

“Measure for Measure” explores several themes, including justice, morality, and power. The play questions the effectiveness of strict law enforcement and highlights the importance of mercy and forgiveness. It also explores the hypocrisy of those in power and their abuse of authority. Another significant theme in the play is the conflict between the secular and the religious. Isabella, a novice nun, is torn between her religious ideals and her duty to save her brother’s life. The play highlights the tension between the two worlds and the challenges of reconciling them.

Characters

The play features several memorable characters, including the Duke, Angelo, Isabella, and Claudio. The Duke is a complex character who disguises himself as a friar to observe the events in the city. He is a wise and compassionate leader who values mercy and forgiveness. Angelo, on the other hand, is a strict and hypocritical deputy who abuses his power for personal gain. Isabella is a virtuous and devout nun who is torn between her religious ideals and her duty to save her brother’s life. Claudio is her brother, who is sentenced to death for having sex before marriage. Mariana is Angelo’s abandoned fiancée, who helps Isabella expose Angelo’s hypocrisy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Measure for Measure” is a powerful play that explores several themes and features memorable characters. The play questions the effectiveness of strict law enforcement and highlights the importance of mercy and forgiveness. It also explores the conflict between the secular and the religious and the challenges of reconciling them. Shakespeare’s play remains relevant today and continues to captivate audiences with its complex plot and thought-provoking themes.