Act 1 measure for measure Flashcards
Who is the Duke of Vienna in Measure for Measure?
Duke Vincentio.
What does the Duke decide to do at the start of the play?
He decides to leave Vienna temporarily and hand over power to his deputy, Angelo.
Why does the Duke choose to leave Vienna in Act 1?
He wants to observe how the city functions without him and to see if Angelo will enforce the laws that the Duke has been too lenient to uphold.
Who does the Duke appoint to rule Vienna in his absence?
Angelo is appointed as the temporary ruler.
What concern does the Duke express about the state of Vienna’s laws?
He believes the laws have been too lax and are not being enforced, leading to moral decay in the city.
What role does Escalus play in Act 1?
Escalus is a wise and experienced lord who is loyal to the Duke. He is also tasked with assisting Angelo in governing Vienna.
What crime is Claudio arrested for in Act 1?
Claudio is arrested for impregnating Juliet, his fiancée, before they are officially married, violating the strict moral laws that Angelo begins enforcing
How does Angelo initially react to being given power by the Duke?
Angelo is hesitant and expresses modesty, saying he feels unworthy of the Duke’s trust, but he eventually accepts the role.
How does Lucio react to Claudio’s arrest in Act 1?
Lucio is shocked and upset. He agrees to help Claudio by asking Isabella, Claudio’s sister, to plead for her brother’s life.
What is Isabella’s situation in Act 1?
Isabella is about to enter a convent and take her vows as a nun.
How does Claudio feel about his arrest?
Claudio acknowledges his wrongdoing but believes that his punishment is too harsh, considering that he intended to marry Juliet.
What does the Duke reveal to the audience in a soliloquy in Act 1, Scene 3?
The Duke reveals that he has not truly left Vienna but will remain in disguise as a friar to secretly observe how Angelo governs.
Why does the Duke disguise himself as a friar in Act 1?
He wants to watch how Angelo enforces the laws and understand how the citizens of Vienna react to stricter governance without directly intervening.
What theme is introduced through Angelo’s appointment in Act 1?
The theme of justice vs. mercy, as Angelo is expected to enforce the law with strict justice, contrasting with the Duke’s previous leniency.
