Measure for Measure

"Measure for Measure" by William Shakespeare is a play thought to be written during the early 17th century. The overarching theme of the play is the exploration of justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature, with a focus on characters like Duke Vincentio, Lord Angelo, and Isabella as they navigate the challenges posed by the law and their individual moral dilemmas. At the start of the play, we are introduced to the Duke of Vienna, who is about to leave the city, appointing Lord Angelo to rule in his stead. The Duke expresses concern about the state's lapse in enforcing strict moral laws, which has led to widespread corruption. Angelo, known for his strict adherence to the law, is given unprecedented authority to maintain order, while the Duke intends to observe the situation in disguise. Meanwhile, Claudio is arrested for impregnating Juliet, who is his fiancée but whose marriage had not been publicly declared. Isabella, Claudio's sister, learns of her brother’s impending execution and pleads for his life, setting the stage for a conflict between justice and mercy that will unfold through the play. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet and actor. He is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon". His extant works, including collaborations, consist of some 39 plays, 154 sonnets, three long narrative poems and a few other verses, some of uncertain authorship. His plays have been translated into every major living language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright. Shakespeare remains arguably the most influential writer in the English language, and his works continue to be studied and reinterpreted.