Measure for Measure

Truth and hypocrisy, chastity and lust, justice and compassion collide in Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure. Empowered by the absentee Duke to reverse the lax morals in Vienna, Angelo imposes the full measure of the law on Claudio, sentencing him to death for his fiancée’s premarital pregnancy. When Claudio’s sister Isabella, a novice nun, appeals for clemency, lust tempts Angelo to barter her virtue for her brother’s life. Colorful supporting characters provide comic relief as the disguised Duke uncovers the deceit. Wickedly comic and strangely tender, Measure for Measure is one of Shakespeare’s most powerful moral plays.