Evaluate “Measure for Measure” as a problem play.
Evaluate “Measure for Measure” as a problem play. (2015)
A problem play deals with social or moral issues through conflict. The term was first used by critic F.S. Boas (1862-1957). He said that plays like “Measure for Measure” (1623) raise difficult questions but give no clear answers. The play mixes comedy, tragedy, and moral conflict. It deals with law, justice, mercy, lust, and hypocrisy. The story of the Duke, Angelo, and Isabella shows the confusion of right and wrong. Thus, the play remains morally and socially puzzling till the end.
Problem of Justice and Mercy: The main moral problem of the play lies between law and mercy. Angelo enforces the law very strictly and sentences Claudio to death for fornication. He says,
These words show his hard view of justice. Isabella pleads for her brother’s life, but Angelo rejects mercy. Later, the Duke pardons Angelo and Lucio. So, the play leaves the question: who is truly just? Should the law punish or forgive? Shakespeare does not answer clearly.“The law hath not been dead, though it hath slept.”
Problem of Morality and Hypocrisy: Another moral issue is the hypocrisy of men in power. Angelo appears holy but acts wickedly. The Duke says,
This shows that outward goodness can cover inner sin. Angelo condemns Claudio for lust but desires Isabella himself. His fall illustrates how human virtue can be weakened by temptation.“O, what may man within him hide
Though angel on the outward side!”
Problem of Chastity and Love: The conflict between chastity and affection creates another problem. Angelo asks Isabella to surrender her virginity to save Claudio. She replies firmly,
Her words show her deep faith in purity. But her decision leaves another question: is she right to let her brother die? Mariana’s “bed trick” saves both, but the moral problem stays unsolved. The play raises the issue of whether virtue can survive in a corrupt world.“Sir, believe this: I had rather give my body than my soul.”
Problem of Punishment and Forgiveness: The Duke’s final actions bring further questions. He punishes no one with death. Instead, he orders Angelo and Lucio to marry the women they wronged. He says,
These lines illustrate his concept of a fair return. But forced marriages cannot be called true justice. The end feels incomplete. Wrongdoers live, and victims remain silent. The audience feels uneasy about such easy forgiveness.“Haste still pays haste, and leisure answers leisure;
Like doth quit like, and measure still for measure.”
Problem of Genre and Ending: The play’s form adds to its problem. It is neither a full comedy nor a pure tragedy. It ends with marriages but without joy. The Duke’s proposal to Isabella remains unanswered. There is no laughter or harmony like other comedies. The play begins with sin and ends with silence. Its dark prisons, corrupt judges, and moral doubt make it a serious matter. So, the play mixes tragic tension with comic close, creating a “problem play” of human confusion.
In summary, “Measure for Measure” is a true problem play because it poses questions about justice, mercy, and morality without providing definitive answers. The characters are neither saints nor sinners. The law is strict, but mercy is uncertain. Love, purity, and power clash in every scene. Shakespeare shows that life is full of contradictions. Thus, the play remains a powerful study of human weakness and moral conflict.