Measure for Measure Ed3 Arden

Measure for Measure explores themes of mercy and justice in corrupt Vienna, with the Duke disguising himself as a friar to witness the consequences. Robert N. Watson's introduction examines the play's increased attention and the shifting judgements of key characters, analysing their social foundations and implications on love, marriage, sexuality, consent, mortality, religion, statecraft, moderation, and theatre.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 440 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Shakespeare's Measure for Measure is often considered one of his "problem plays," delving into complex themes of mercy and justice within the corrupt city of Vienna. The Duke, portrayed as a strict moralist, appoints his loyal deputy Angelo as the temporary ruler of Vienna, while he assumes the disguise of a friar to observe the unfolding events. In this new Arden edition, featuring comprehensive commentary and notes from A. R. Braunmuller and Robert N. Watson, the play's recent resurgence in attention is explored. The authors examine the changing perspectives of key characters like the Duke and Isabella, analyzing the social foundations behind these shifts and their validity as interpretations of the text. They also delve into the play's profound implications on various topics, including love, marriage, sexuality, consent, mortality, religion, statecraft, moderation, and the art of theatre itself.

The Duke's decision to appoint Angelo as the temporary leader of Vienna raises several questions. Firstly, it highlights the Duke's belief in the power of authority and the importance of having a strong leader in times of crisis. Angelo's appointment also suggests a lack of trust in the Duke's judgment, as Angelo is known for his strict moral code and his willingness to use force to achieve his goals.

On the other hand, the Duke's disguise as a friar allows him to witness firsthand the corruption and moral decay that plagues Vienna. As a religious figure, the Duke is able to observe the actions of the characters without being influenced by their societal positions or personal interests. This disguise enables him to make impartial judgments and to implement reforms that are in the best interests of the city.

One of the central themes of Measure for Measure is the concept of mercy and justice. The Duke believes in the importance of both, but he also recognizes that they can be difficult to balance. He struggles with the decision to punish Angelo for his crimes, but he also understands the need for mercy and forgiveness.

Angelo, on the other hand, is portrayed as a man who believes in the power of his position and who is willing to use it to his advantage. He is willing to sacrifice the lives of others to achieve his goals, and he is willing to manipulate and abuse those around him to get what he wants.

Isabella, the Duke's niece, is a character who represents the struggle between mercy and justice. She is torn between her love for Angelo and her loyalty to her uncle. She understands the importance of both mercy and justice, but she is also aware of the consequences of her actions.

Throughout the play, the characters are forced to confront their own moral dilemmas and to make difficult choices. They are tested by the corrupt society in which they live, and they are forced to decide whether to follow their own moral codes or to conform to the expectations of others.

One of the most striking aspects of Measure for Measure is the way in which Shakespeare uses language to convey the themes of mercy and justice. The play is filled with vivid imagery and powerful metaphors that help to bring the characters to life and to make the themes more accessible to the audience.

For example, Shakespeare uses the image of a "measure" to represent the concept of justice. The Duke uses the measure to punish Angelo for his crimes, but he also uses it to measure the worth of each individual in the city. He believes that everyone should be held accountable for their actions, and that justice should be administered fairly and impartially.

Similarly, Shakespeare uses the image of a "friar" to represent the concept of mercy. The Duke disguises himself as a friar to witness the corruption and moral decay that plagues Vienna. He is able to offer mercy and forgiveness to those who deserve it, and he is able to provide guidance and support to those who are struggling.

Another important theme in Measure for Measure is the role of the state in shaping society. The play explores the ways in which the government can use its power to control and manipulate its citizens. The Duke uses his power as the ruler of Vienna to punish Angelo and to implement reforms that are in the best interests of the city.

However, the Duke also recognizes the limitations of his power. He is aware that his decisions can have unintended consequences, and that he cannot control the actions of every individual in the city. He is forced to balance his own desires for justice and his responsibilities as a ruler.

Overall, Measure for Measure is a complex and thought-provoking play that explores a wide range of themes. It is a play that challenges its audience to think critically about the issues of mercy and justice, and it is a play that encourages its audience to consider the role of the state in shaping society.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781904271437
Edition number: 3 ed