Cover of Measure for Measure

Measure for Measure

by William Shakespeare

First published
1623
Reading level
Easy
Price
Free

About the book

"Measure for Measure" by William Shakespeare is a play written in 1603 or 1604. When Duke Vincentio leaves Vienna, he appoints the strict Angelo as deputy ruler. Angelo revives an old law punishing fornication with death and sentences young Claudio to execution. When Claudio's sister Isabella, a novice nun, pleads for mercy, Angelo makes a shocking proposal: her virginity in exchange for her brother's life. Meanwhile, the Duke secretly remains in the city, disguised as a friar, observing the unfolding corruption and preparing his own interventions.

  • Comedy plays
  • Siblings
  • Chastity
  • Vienna (Austria)

Updated September 2026. Public domain in the USA. Text and summary from Project Gutenberg eBook #23045. Measure for Measure on Wikipedia.

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