Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare (Character Analysis)

 

Measure for Measure

by William Shakespeare

(Character Analysis) 

Duke Vincentio

Duke Vincentio, the central character in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, is a complex and multifaceted figure, embodying the themes of power, justice, and morality that run throughout the play. His character can be analyzed from various perspectives:

 

 1. The Benevolent Ruler

Duke Vincentio presents himself as a ruler concerned with the moral decay in his city, Vienna. He appears to be a just and benevolent leader, who recognizes that the laws have become lax and that corruption has taken root. His decision to step away from power and disguise himself as a friar to observe the state of his dukedom can be seen as an attempt to restore order without the harshness of direct intervention. This approach suggests that the Duke is wise and considerate, seeking to balance justice with mercy.

 

 2. The Manipulative Schemer

However, Duke Vincentio's actions also reveal a more manipulative side. By appointing Angelo as his deputy and leaving Vienna under his control, the Duke deliberately creates a situation where he can test Angelo's character and observe the effects of strict law enforcement. His decision to disguise himself and interact with other characters in secret allows him to manipulate events from behind the scenes. Some critics argue that this behavior is more about controlling the outcome rather than genuinely restoring justice, portraying the Duke as a figure who enjoys exercising power covertly.

 

 3. The Moral Judge

Throughout the play, Duke Vincentio assumes the role of a moral judge. Disguised as a friar, he hears confessions, advises characters, and ultimately decides their fates. He orchestrates the events leading to the resolution, ensuring that justice is served, but also showing mercy where he deems it necessary. This duality—balancing justice with mercy—is central to his character. The Duke's final decisions, particularly in his treatment of Angelo, reflect his belief in redemption and the possibility of forgiveness, even for those who have committed serious wrongs.

 

 4. The Ambiguous Figure

Duke Vincentio is also an ambiguous figure, whose true motivations and moral standing are open to interpretation. Some see him as a Christ-like figure, guiding his subjects towards moral reform and offering salvation. Others view him as a Machiavellian ruler, more interested in maintaining control and asserting his authority than in genuine justice. His proposal to Isabella in the final act adds to this ambiguity, raising questions about his intentions and the nature of his leadership.

 

 5. The Reflection of Power and Authority

The Duke's character reflects Shakespeare's exploration of power and authority. Through Vincentio, the play examines the complexities of governance, the use and abuse of power, and the challenges of ruling justly. His actions and decisions serve as a commentary on the responsibilities of those in power and the difficult balance between enforcing the law and showing compassion.

 

 Conclusion

Duke Vincentio is a richly drawn character whose actions drive the plot of Measure for Measure. He embodies the tensions between justice and mercy, authority and manipulation, and his ambiguous nature invites varied interpretations. Whether seen as a benevolent ruler, a manipulative schemer, or a moral judge, the Duke's character serves as a powerful vehicle for Shakespeare's exploration of the moral and ethical dilemmas inherent in leadership and governance.

 

Isabella

Isabella, a central character in William Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, is a complex figure whose morality, virtue, and personal conflict are pivotal to the play's exploration of justice, power, and human nature. Here is an analysis of her character:

 

 1. Virtue and Morality:

Isabella is introduced as a novice in a convent, symbolizing her deep commitment to chastity, piety, and religious devotion. Her decision to become a nun reflects her desire to live a life of spiritual purity and moral integrity, setting her apart from the morally ambiguous world around her. Her strict adherence to her principles becomes a defining trait, especially in her interactions with other characters.

 

 2. Conflict of Values:

Isabella's virtue is tested when she is forced to confront the corrupt authority of Angelo, the play's antagonist. When her brother Claudio is sentenced to death for fornication, Isabella pleads for his life. Angelo, who is supposed to embody the law, propositions her, offering to spare Claudio in exchange for her virginity. This dilemma puts Isabella in a position where her values—her chastity and her love for her brother—are in direct conflict. Her refusal to sacrifice her chastity, even to save her brother, underscores her commitment to her moral principles, though it also highlights the rigidity of her character.

 

 3. Strength and Agency:

Isabella displays remarkable strength and agency in a patriarchal society. Despite the power imbalance between her and Angelo, she confronts him with courage and eloquence, unafraid to speak truth to power. Her famous line, "More than our brother is our chastity," encapsulates her belief that her body and virtue cannot be commodified, even in the face of extreme pressure. Isabella’s resistance to Angelo’s advances is a powerful statement of autonomy and self-respect.

 

 4. Complexity of Compassion:

Isabella’s character also raises questions about compassion and forgiveness. While she is unwavering in her own moral stance, she initially struggles with the idea of forgiving Angelo after his crimes are revealed. This tension between justice and mercy is a central theme in the play, and Isabella’s journey reflects the difficulty of balancing these ideals. Her eventual plea for Angelo’s life, prompted by the Duke’s manipulation, demonstrates her capacity for mercy, though it also suggests her submission to the male authority figures in the play.

 

 5. Victim or Victor:

There is ongoing debate among scholars and audiences about whether Isabella is ultimately a victim of the play’s events or a victor in her own right. Some view her as a pawn in the Duke’s larger scheme, manipulated and coerced by the male characters around her. Others see her as a symbol of moral strength and resilience, who, despite the challenges she faces, remains true to her values. Her ambiguous fate at the play’s conclusion—where she is left speechless after the Duke proposes marriage—adds to the complexity of her character, leaving open questions about her autonomy and happiness.

 

 6. Religious Commitment:

Isabella's commitment to her religious life is unwavering, even when faced with personal trials. Her dedication to becoming a nun signifies her desire to live a life detached from the corruptions of the world. This spiritual commitment, however, is tested throughout the play, revealing the complexities of living a life of strict virtue in a morally ambiguous world. Her journey can be seen as a struggle to reconcile her religious ideals with the harsh realities of the world she inhabits.

 

 Conclusion:

Isabella is a richly drawn character whose virtues and flaws are central to the moral and thematic fabric of Measure for Measure. She embodies the struggle between moral absolutism and the demands of compassion, making her a figure of both admiration and controversy. Her character invites the audience to reflect on the nature of justice, the limits of virtue, and the complexities of human agency within a world governed by flawed institutions and individuals.

 

Claudio

Claudio, a central character in Shakespeare's play Measure for Measure, is a young gentleman of Vienna who finds himself caught up in a legal and moral crisis. His character is multifaceted, reflecting the complex themes of justice, morality, and human frailty that Shakespeare explores in the play.

 

 1. Victim of Harsh Justice:

   - Circumstance: Claudio is arrested and sentenced to death for impregnating Juliet, his betrothed, before they are officially married. Although they are deeply in love and intended to marry, their union has not been formally recognized by the state. Claudio’s situation highlights the strict and often hypocritical enforcement of laws in Vienna.

   - Symbolism: Claudio represents the ordinary person who falls victim to the rigid and often cruel application of justice. His predicament serves to question the morality of the law and those who enforce it, particularly in a society where the rulers themselves are often morally compromised.

 

 2. Human Frailty and Desperation:

   - Fear of Death: One of Claudio’s defining moments is his reaction to the news of his impending execution. His initial courage falters, and he is consumed by a very human fear of death. His plea to his sister, Isabella, to save his life even at the cost of her chastity shows his desperation. This plea reveals his vulnerability and his internal conflict between moral integrity and the instinct to survive.

   - Character Complexity: This moment of weakness makes Claudio a deeply human character. Shakespeare does not portray him as a hero but rather as a young man overwhelmed by fear and willing to compromise his principles. This adds depth to his character, showing that even good people can falter under extreme pressure.

 

 3. Relationship with Isabella:

   - Sibling Bond: Claudio’s relationship with his sister Isabella is central to his character development. He relies on her virtue and her persuasive abilities to save him from execution. However, his plea for her to sacrifice her chastity for his life puts their bond to the test, highlighting the tension between familial duty and personal morality.

   - Moral Conflict: Claudio’s request forces Isabella to confront a moral dilemma, which in turn reflects back on Claudio’s character. It shows that he is not simply a passive victim but someone whose actions and desires have complex moral implications.

 

 4. Claudio as a Moral Catalyst:

   - Driving the Plot: Claudio’s situation is the catalyst for the main events of the play, particularly the actions of Isabella and the Duke. His arrest and sentencing expose the corruption and hypocrisy of Vienna’s rulers, particularly Angelo, who enforces the law with an iron hand while secretly harboring impure desires.

   - Moral Reflection: Through Claudio, Shakespeare invites the audience to reflect on the nature of justice, the balance between law and mercy, and the imperfections inherent in human nature. Claudio's predicament forces the other characters, and the audience, to grapple with these themes.

 

 5. Resolution and Redemption:

   - Survival and Redemption: By the play's end, Claudio is spared from execution, thanks to the Duke's intervention and the various machinations that unfold. His survival can be seen as a form of redemption, not only for Claudio himself but also for the society that must reckon with the consequences of its harsh laws.

   - Future Prospects: Claudio’s ultimate fate, including his impending marriage to Juliet, suggests a return to social order and personal happiness. However, the play leaves open questions about the true cost of the events that have transpired, both for Claudio and for the other characters.

 

In summary, Claudio is a character who embodies the vulnerabilities and moral complexities of ordinary people. His role in Measure for Measure serves to illuminate the harshness of the law, the nature of justice, and the human capacity for fear and moral compromise. Through Claudio, Shakespeare explores the tension between justice and mercy, and the challenges of upholding moral integrity in a flawed world.

 

Angelo

Angelo is one of the most complex characters in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. Appointed by Duke Vincentio as the temporary ruler of Vienna, Angelo is portrayed as a strict, moralistic, and seemingly incorruptible leader. However, his character reveals deep hypocrisy and moral weakness as the play progresses.

 

 Key Aspects of Angelo’s Character:

 

1. Strict Moralist:

   - Angelo initially embodies the role of a rigid enforcer of the law. He imposes harsh penalties on those who violate Vienna’s moral codes, particularly sexual immorality. This is evident in his decision to sentence Claudio to death for impregnating Juliet before marriage, even though their union was consensual and bound by a betrothal.

 

2. Hypocrisy and Corruption:

   - Despite his outward moral rigidity, Angelo's true nature is exposed when he is tempted by Isabella, Claudio’s sister. His desire for her leads him to abuse his power, offering to spare Claudio's life in exchange for sexual favors from Isabella. This reveals Angelo's profound hypocrisy: he condemns others for the same sins he is willing to commit himself.

 

3. Internal Conflict:

   - Angelo’s character is marked by an internal struggle between his public persona and his private desires. His soliloquy in Act 2, Scene 4, where he reflects on his sudden attraction to Isabella, showcases this conflict. He is tormented by the realization that his strict enforcement of the law does not shield him from the very temptations he condemns in others.

 

4. Cowardice and Lack of Integrity:

   - After attempting to exploit Isabella, Angelo's true cowardice is revealed. Despite promising her that he will spare Claudio, he secretly orders Claudio’s execution, fearing that Isabella might expose him. This act of betrayal highlights Angelo's lack of integrity and his willingness to lie and deceive to protect his reputation.

 

5. Judgment and Redemption:

   - In the final act, Angelo is forced to confront his actions when Duke Vincentio, who has been secretly observing him, returns. Angelo’s eventual confession and plea for death as punishment for his crimes demonstrate a moment of self-awareness and remorse. However, Shakespeare leaves Angelo's redemption ambiguous, as he is pardoned by the Duke but still faces marriage to Mariana, a woman he once abandoned.

 

 Conclusion:

Angelo in Measure for Measure serves as a vehicle for Shakespeare to explore themes of justice, morality, and hypocrisy. His character is a stark reminder of the dangers of excessive moralism and the potential for corruption when power is unchecked. Angelo’s journey from a seemingly incorruptible authority figure to a man exposed by his own vices is central to the play’s exploration of the complexities of human nature.

 

Lucio

Lucio is one of the most intriguing and complex characters in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. He serves as a blend of comic relief, social commentator, and plot instigator, embodying the play's exploration of morality, hypocrisy, and justice.

 

 Character Traits:

 

1. Witty and Charismatic:

   Lucio is a man of sharp wit and eloquence. His cleverness allows him to navigate Vienna's corrupt and morally ambiguous society, making him a popular figure among his peers. He often uses his charm to influence others, whether by coaxing Isabella to plead for her brother's life or by spreading rumors about the Duke.

 

2. Cynical and Irreverent:

   Lucio is deeply cynical, especially towards authority figures. His irreverence is evident in his frequent jibes at the Duke, whom he refers to as a "Duke of dark corners." Lucio mocks the pretensions and hypocrisies of those in power, yet he himself is not above manipulation and deceit.

 

3. Morally Ambiguous:

   Lucio embodies the play's theme of moral ambiguity. While he assists Isabella in her quest to save Claudio, his motivations are questionable. He seems to enjoy the scandal and drama more than the moral cause itself. His casual approach to truth, particularly in his slanderous remarks about the Duke, further underscores his lack of moral integrity.

 

4. Cowardly and Self-Serving:

   When confronted with the consequences of his actions, Lucio reveals a cowardly side. He is quick to deny responsibility for his words and actions when they put him at risk, particularly when the Duke returns and reveals his true identity. Lucio's self-preservation instinct leads him to betray his own principles, showing a lack of true conviction.

 

5. Role as a Social Commentator:

   Despite his flaws, Lucio provides valuable insights into the society of Vienna. His commentary on the corruption and moral decay of the city reflects Shakespeare's critique of societal norms and the often arbitrary nature of justice. Lucio's observations, though delivered with humor and irreverence, expose the hypocrisy and double standards prevalent in Vienna.

 

 Function in the Play:

 

1. Plot Catalyst:

   Lucio plays a crucial role in driving the plot forward. He is the one who informs Isabella of her brother's plight, prompting her to seek an audience with Angelo. His gossip and manipulation create tension and conflict, ultimately leading to the play's resolution.

 

2. Comic Relief:

   Lucio's wit and humor provide comic relief in a play that deals with heavy themes such as justice, morality, and the abuse of power. His bawdy jokes and irreverent attitude contrast with the more serious characters, offering the audience a break from the play's darker moments.

 

3. Moral Ambiguity and Hypocrisy:

   Through Lucio, Shakespeare explores the themes of hypocrisy and moral ambiguity. Lucio's character blurs the lines between right and wrong, virtue and vice, highlighting the complexities of human nature and the difficulty of achieving true justice.

 

 Conclusion:

Lucio is a multifaceted character who embodies the contradictions and complexities of Measure for Measure. His wit, cynicism, and moral ambiguity make him both a source of humor and a vehicle for Shakespeare's social critique. While he is far from a moral exemplar, Lucio's character serves to expose the flaws and hypocrisies of the society in which he lives, making him an essential part of the play's exploration of justice and morality.

 

Juliet

Juliet in William Shakespeare's play Measure for Measure is a character who, although not one of the central figures, plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the plot, particularly in relation to the themes of morality, justice, and human frailty.

 

 Character Overview:

Juliet is the betrothed of Claudio, one of the main characters in the play. She is pregnant with his child, a fact that leads to Claudio's arrest under the strict moral laws enforced by Angelo, the deputy ruler of Vienna. Her relationship with Claudio, which is not formally sanctioned by marriage, becomes a focal point for the play's exploration of legalism versus mercy.

 

 Key Traits and Analysis:

1. Victim of Circumstance:

   - Juliet's situation represents the consequences of the strict enforcement of laws without consideration of human compassion. She is portrayed as a victim, both of the societal norms that condemn her for premarital sex and of the harshness of Angelo's legalistic approach.

   - Her character evokes sympathy, as she is essentially punished for a natural human relationship, highlighting the play's criticism of the application of rigid moral standards without empathy.

 

2. Silenced Voice:

   - Juliet's role in the play is relatively passive. She does not have many lines, and her voice is largely absent in the public sphere. This absence can be seen as a reflection of how women, particularly those in morally compromising situations, were often silenced or marginalized in society.

   - Despite her limited dialogue, her presence is significant, as it serves to question the fairness of the laws and the treatment of individuals under them.

 

3. Moral Complexity:

   - While Juliet's actions (engaging in premarital sex) would have been considered immoral by the standards of the time, the play invites the audience to view her situation with a more nuanced understanding. Her relationship with Claudio is portrayed as consensual and loving, which complicates the rigid moral judgment that Angelo imposes.

   - Juliet's character, therefore, contributes to the play's exploration of the complexity of human morality, where actions cannot be simply categorized as right or wrong without understanding the context.

 

4. Representation of Love and Redemption:

   - Juliet and Claudio's relationship represents the natural and human side of love, in contrast to the strict, almost puritanical attitude of Angelo. The fact that their relationship ultimately leads to a form of redemption for Claudio, when the Duke intervenes, underscores the play's message that mercy and love should temper justice.

   - Juliet’s quiet dignity in facing her situation also adds to the theme of redemption, as she bears her plight with grace, reflecting a sense of personal responsibility and resilience.

 

 Conclusion:

Juliet may not be the most vocal or central character in Measure for Measure, but she is pivotal in illustrating the play’s themes of justice, morality, and the human condition. Through her, Shakespeare challenges the audience to consider the impact of harsh moral judgments and the necessity of mercy in governance and human relationships. Her character serves as a reminder of the complexities of love, sin, and redemption in a world that often seeks to impose black-and-white judgments on morally grey situations.

 

Barnardine

Barnardine is a fascinating character in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, though he plays a relatively minor role. He is a prisoner, sentenced to death, but he exhibits a unique attitude towards his fate and the world around him.

 

 Characteristics of Barnardine:

1. Defiance and Apathy: Barnardine is defiant and unrepentant. He refuses to comply with societal norms or the orders of authority. When the Duke and the Provost come to execute him, he bluntly refuses, saying he is not prepared to die. His indifference to life and death, as well as his casual dismissal of the authority, highlights his apathy and resistance.

 

2. Representation of Anarchy: Barnardine's character represents a form of anarchy or chaos within the play. He exists outside the moral and legal frameworks that govern the other characters. His refusal to repent or conform to the expectations of society makes him an embodiment of disorder, in contrast to the play's overarching themes of justice and mercy.

 

3. Comic Relief: Although the play deals with serious themes, Barnardine provides moments of dark humor. His nonchalance about his impending execution and his disregard for life make him an absurd figure. For example, his refusal to be executed because he has been drinking is both grotesque and comical, adding a layer of irony to the play's exploration of mortality.

 

4. Contrast to Claudio: Barnardine serves as a foil to Claudio, another prisoner who is also sentenced to death. While Claudio is fearful and seeks redemption, Barnardine is utterly unconcerned. This contrast highlights the different attitudes towards death and the moral consequences of one's actions, underscoring the play's exploration of human nature and morality.

 

5. Symbol of the Play’s Ambiguity: Barnardine's character contributes to the ambiguity of Measure for Measure. His refusal to die, despite being condemned, questions the rigid application of justice. It suggests that justice and mercy are complex, and that some individuals may not fit neatly into the moral categories the other characters try to impose.

 

In summary, Barnardine is a complex character who, despite his limited role in the play, adds depth to Measure for Measure's exploration of themes like justice, mortality, and societal order. His defiance, indifference, and the dark humor he brings to the play make him a memorable figure within Shakespeare's work.

 

Escalus

Escalus is a significant character in Shakespeare's play Measure for Measure. As a senior lord and a respected statesman in Vienna, he embodies wisdom, moderation, and a deep sense of justice. Below is an analysis of Escalus’s character:

 

 1. Wisdom and Experience:

   - Escalus is portrayed as an older, experienced nobleman. His age and experience give him a perspective that is often more measured and thoughtful than that of other characters. He serves as a voice of reason, often advocating for mercy and understanding the complexities of human behavior.

 

 2. Moderation and Temperance:

   - Escalus is temperate and balanced, avoiding extremes. Unlike Angelo, who is rigid and unyielding, Escalus advocates for a more lenient approach to justice. He understands the need for laws but also recognizes the importance of mercy, which is central to the play's moral conflict.

   - For example, when Angelo enforces Vienna's strict morality laws, Escalus questions whether the harsh punishment fits the crime, especially in Claudio's case.

 

 3. Loyalty and Duty:

   - Escalus is loyal to the Duke and committed to his duties. He respects the Duke’s decision to appoint Angelo as his deputy and supports Angelo in his role, even though he disagrees with some of Angelo’s harsh methods. This sense of duty reflects his commitment to the rule of law and order in Vienna.

 

 4. Compassion and Empathy:

   - Escalus often demonstrates compassion, particularly in his interactions with other characters. His empathy is evident in how he listens to and understands the plights of the common people, as seen in his dealings with Elbow and Pompey. He tries to balance the enforcement of laws with understanding the human condition, which contrasts with Angelo’s more mechanical approach.

 

 5. Counsel and Prudence:

   - Escalus often provides wise counsel to Angelo, advising caution and consideration in judgment. He attempts to temper Angelo’s severity with his advice, although Angelo rarely heeds it. Escalus’s advice is grounded in a deep understanding of human nature and the consequences of the law.

 

 6. Limited Power:

   - Despite his wisdom and experience, Escalus’s influence is limited in the play. He is not able to prevent Angelo’s severe judgments or the near-execution of Claudio. This limitation highlights the tension between wisdom and authority in the play, as well as the potential dangers of unchecked power.

 

 7. Moral Integrity:

   - Escalus maintains his moral integrity throughout the play. He does not succumb to the corruption or moral ambiguity that entangles other characters. His integrity is a constant, providing a moral anchor in a play filled with ethical dilemmas.

 

 8. Contrast to Angelo:

   - Escalus serves as a foil to Angelo. While Angelo is strict, legalistic, and hypocritical, Escalus is merciful, understanding, and consistent in his moral values. This contrast helps to highlight the central themes of justice and mercy in the play.

 

 Conclusion:

Escalus is a representation of a just and wise ruler, embodying the virtues of moderation, compassion, and integrity. Although his role in the play is often overshadowed by more dramatic characters like Angelo and the Duke, Escalus’s steady presence provides a moral compass and highlights the complexities of justice and governance in Measure for Measure.

 

Mistress Overdone

Mistress Overdone is a minor but significant character in William Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. She is a bawd, or brothel-keeper, who runs an establishment in Vienna. Although her role is relatively small, she serves as a crucial figure representing the themes of morality, hypocrisy, and the complexities of justice within the play.

 

 Key Aspects of Mistress Overdone's Character:

 

1. Symbol of Moral Decay:

   - Mistress Overdone embodies the moral degradation that plagues Vienna. Her profession and her brothel are central to the play's depiction of the city's licentiousness. The fact that her business flourishes underlines the widespread nature of vice in the society Shakespeare is portraying.

 

2. Victim of Legal Reforms:

   - The new strict enforcement of moral laws by Angelo, who is deputized by the Duke, threatens her livelihood. She represents the common people who suffer under the harsh imposition of these laws, highlighting the impact of Angelo's authoritarian approach. Mistress Overdone's plight contrasts with the more privileged characters who can maneuver around these laws.

 

3. Voice of the Common People:

   - Through Mistress Overdone, Shakespeare gives voice to the concerns and fears of the lower classes. She is a practical, survival-driven character who understands the social dynamics of Vienna. Her interactions with other characters like Lucio and Pompey provide insight into how the general populace views the law and those who enforce it.

 

4. Figure of Resilience:

   - Despite the increasing dangers to her profession, Mistress Overdone shows resilience and a certain level of defiance. She continues to operate her business and attempts to navigate the changing legal landscape. Her character underscores the idea that laws and regulations, while designed to enforce order, often disproportionately affect those on the margins of society.

 

5. Comic Relief and Irony:

   - As with many of Shakespeare's minor characters, Mistress Overdone provides comic relief. Her interactions, especially with Pompey, are laced with humor, irony, and a certain world-weariness that contrasts sharply with the more severe, moralistic tone of the play. Her name itself is a source of humor, suggesting both her profession and the excesses of her situation.

 

6. Reflects the Hypocrisy of Authority:

   - Mistress Overdone's existence highlights the hypocrisy of Vienna's rulers. While they publicly condemn vice, characters like Angelo are themselves guilty of private moral failings. Mistress Overdone’s trade, while illegal, is in demand, indicating a disconnect between the law and the behavior of those who enforce or support it.

 

 Conclusion:

Mistress Overdone, though a minor character, plays a significant role in illustrating the themes of Measure for Measure. She represents the underbelly of Vienna, showing the impact of the law on the powerless and the hypocrisy inherent in a society that punishes vice while simultaneously indulging in it. Through her, Shakespeare critiques the rigidity of moral absolutism and the complexities of justice.

 

Pompey

Mistress Pompey, often referred to as Pompey Bum, is a minor but notable character in William Shakespeare's play Measure for Measure. He is a clownish figure who serves as a comic relief in a play that is otherwise deeply concerned with serious themes such as justice, morality, and the abuse of power.

 

 Character Traits and Role:

1. Clown and Comic Relief:

   - Pompey is depicted as a bawd or a servant to Mistress Overdone, the proprietor of a brothel. His role primarily involves assisting in the operations of the brothel and he often speaks in a humorous, irreverent tone. Through Pompey, Shakespeare injects comedy into the play, using his witty exchanges and puns to lighten the mood, especially during tense moments.

 

2. Cynical View on Society:

   - Despite his comical persona, Pompey displays a certain level of cynicism about the state of Vienna and its moral hypocrisy. He seems to have a pragmatic view of the world, understanding that people will always seek out vices like sex and that efforts to suppress these through laws, like the strict enforcement led by Angelo, are futile. His cynicism provides a contrast to the more idealistic or morally driven characters in the play.

 

3. Commentary on Law and Authority:

   - Pompey’s encounters with the law, especially his interactions with Escalus and Lucio, highlight the contradictions and the often arbitrary nature of justice in Vienna. When he is arrested for being involved in the brothel business, he doesn’t express much remorse or surprise; instead, he treats it as an inevitable part of his trade. His pragmatic attitude towards the law underscores the play's critique of the legal system and those who enforce it.

 

4. Survivor and Opportunist:

   - Throughout the play, Pompey demonstrates a knack for survival. He adapts to his changing circumstances with ease, showing his resourcefulness. Even when he is imprisoned, he finds a way to make himself useful as an assistant to the executioner, Abhorson. This adaptability speaks to his understanding of the world and his ability to navigate its challenges.

 

5. Representative of the Lower Class:

   - Pompey represents the lower-class citizens of Vienna, those who live on the fringes of society and whose lives are most affected by the laws imposed by the ruling class. His presence in the play provides a glimpse into the lives of those who are often overlooked in the larger moral and political debates, reminding the audience of the human cost of such policies.

 

 Conclusion:

Mistress Pompey Bum is a multifaceted character who, despite his relatively minor role, contributes significantly to the thematic complexity of Measure for Measure. His humor, cynicism, and pragmatic approach to life offer a counterpoint to the play's more serious themes, and his interactions with other characters help to illuminate the play's exploration of justice, morality, and social hypocrisy. Through Pompey, Shakespeare invites the audience to question the effectiveness and morality of strict laws and to consider the resilience of the human spirit in the face of such challenges.