Play review: Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare.

My second blog post today is that of a review, discussing Shakespeare's problematic play Measure for Measure. This play opens with the Duke Vincentio taking leave from his duties in Vienna. In his place, is Antonio who the Duke has instructed to do his role until he returns. Shortly into the start of his tenure, Antonio punishes Claudio to death for getting his partner Juliet pregnant before marriage. Antonio wants to make an example out of Claudio so no one else does this. What stands out to me about this whole affair is how Antonio is willing to let Claudio go unpunished if his sister, Isabella is willing to sleep with Antonio. This is the same Antonio who wants to punish Claudio for doing the exact same. What is worse is that Isabella is in the process of becoming a nun when she gets visited by her brother's friend, Lucio. As she has not fully become a nun yet she can talk with him. She is even visits her brother in prison and to my disgust, he tells her to do it. All while this is happening, the Duke has come back disguised as a friar.

I find it a little shocking how the Duke is pretending to be a friar, running around dispensing advice to everyone yet he never puts a stop to Antonio. Even when it comes to Claudio dying, someone else who recently died has their head used to fool Antonio. All through the play that is what the Duke does best - fool people! Now there is no actual murder in the play but the fear of death looms throughput the majority of the play. This is what makes it a problem play. It is not a tragedy though it not strictly a comedy. This is something I like about the play.

With this play you never know what to expect. It is one Shakespeare play that is filled with many revelations that make it one to read. The play offers thoughts on truth and deception while questioning justice and morality. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this play and am giving it a 8/10.

Until next time,

Thomas.