Measure for Measure (Folger Shakespeare Library)

Measure for Measure (Folger Shakespeare Library)

<i>Measure for Measure</i> is among the most passionately discussed of Shakespeare€s plays. In it, a duke temporarily removes himself from governing his city-state, deputizing a member of his administration, Angelo, to enforce the laws more rigorously. Angelo chooses as his first victim Claudio, condemning him to death because he impregnated Juliet before their marriage.<br> <br>Claudio€s sister Isabella, who is entering a convent, pleads for her brother€s life. Angelo attempts to extort sex from her, but Isabella preserves her chastity. The duke, in disguise, eavesdrops as she tells her brother about Angelo€s behavior, then offers to ally himself with her against Angelo.<br> <br>Modern responses to the play show how it can be transformed by its reception in present culture to evoke continuing fascination. To some, the duke (the government) seems meddlesome; to others, he is properly imposing moral standards. Angelo and Isabella€s encounter exemplifies sexual harassment. Others see a woman€s right to control her body in Isabella€s choice between her virginity and her brother€s life.<br> <br>The authoritative edition of <i>Measure for Measure</i> from The Folger Shakespeare Library, the trusted and widely used Shakespeare series for students and general readers, includes:<br> <br>-Freshly edited text based on the best early printed version of the play<br> -Full explanatory notes conveniently placed on pages facing the text of the play<br> -Scene-by-scene plot summaries<br> -A key to the play€s famous lines and phrases<br> -An introduction to reading Shakespeare€s language<br> -An essay by a leading Shakespeare scholar providing a modern perspective on the play<br> -Fresh images from the Folger Shakespeare Library€s vast holdings of rare books<br> -An annotated guide to further reading<br> <br>Essay by Christy Desmet<br> <br>The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, DC, is home to the world€s largest collection of Shakespeare€s printed works, and a magnet for Shakespeare scholars from around the globe. In addition to exhibitions open to the public throughout the year, the Folger offers a full calendar of performances and programs. For more information, visit Folger.edu.