32-Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure

An absent ruler allows bordellos to flourish, a nun to be seduced, and a young lover to be executed—well almost, since tragedy is averted at the last moment. And everyone is married; so, Measure for Measure is technically a comedy. Yet, at the end, neither the characters nor the audience seem very happy. What is Shakespeare up to? Why is this play controversial? Why is it both loved and hated? Most importantly, how can we approach it in a meaningful way? We will explore these issues via some DVDs and a close reading of the play.