Measure for Measure

Name: Measure for Measure
Author: William Shakespeare

By William Shakespeare

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Classics of Literature Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A ruler temporarily hands authority to a strict deputy who enforces moral laws so severely that a young man faces execution for a sexual transgression. The condemned man's sister, a novice about to take vows, pleads for mercy and encounters a coercive bargain when the deputy propositions her. The absent ruler, disguised as a friar, observes and intervenes, arranging deceptions that expose hypocrisy and restore balance. The play unfolds through courtroom scenes, private confrontations, and a staged substitution, probing tensions among justice and mercy, public authority and private vice, sexual politics, and the ethical limits of power.

About the Author

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights and poets in the English language. His works, including iconic plays such as "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and "Antony and Cleopatra," explore themes of love, power, and the human condition. Shakespeare's innovative use of language and dramatic structure has left a lasting impact on literature and the performing arts. In addition to his plays, he is known for his poetry, including sonnets and narrative poems. His ability to capture the complexities of life and emotion continues to resonate with audiences today, making him a central figure in the literary canon.