Act 2 Measure for measure Flashcards
What is Angelo’s attitude toward enforcing the law in Act 2?
Angelo is strict and unwavering, showing no mercy in his decision to enforce Vienna’s long-ignored laws, particularly when sentencing Claudio to death for fornication.
What request does Escalus make of Angelo in Act 2, Scene 1?
Escalus asks Angelo to show mercy toward Claudio and reconsider his harsh punishment.
How does Angelo respond to Escalus’s plea for mercy for Claudio?
Angelo refuses Escalus’s plea, arguing that the law must be enforced to set an example and prevent further moral decline in Vienna.
What character is brought before Escalus in Act 2 for being a notorious criminal?
Elbow, the constable, brings in Pompey (a clown and servant to Mistress Overdone) for being involved in brothels and illegal activities.
What is the main topic of discussion between Escalus and Pompey in Act 2, Scene 1?
Escalus questions Pompey about the prevalence of brothels in Vienna and the overall moral corruption in the city.
In Act 2, Scene 2, what does Isabella do when she meets Angelo?
Isabella begs Angelo to show mercy and spare her brother Claudio’s life, appealing to his sense of compassion and justice.
How does Angelo initially react to Isabella’s plea for her brother in Act 2, Scene 2?
Angelo is moved by Isabella’s passionate argument but remains adamant that the law must be enforced and refuses to pardon Claudio.
What unexpected emotion does Angelo begin to feel for Isabella during their interaction?
Angelo begins to feel lust for Isabella, despite his outward appearance of strict morality and control.
What does Angelo propose to Isabella in a corrupt bargain at the end of Act 2, Scene 4?
Angelo offers Isabella a deal: he will spare Claudio’s life if she agrees to sleep with him.
How does Isabella react to Angelo’s proposition?
Isabella is horrified by Angelo’s offer and refuses to compromise her virtue, even if it means saving her brother’s life.
What theme is highlighted by Angelo’s proposition to Isabella in Act 2?
The theme of power and corruption, as Angelo uses his authority to manipulate Isabella for his own desires, despite enforcing strict moral laws on others.
What does Angelo’s behavior in Act 2 reveal about his character?
Angelo’s behavior reveals his hypocrisy and the contrast between his public image as a moral enforcer and his private lust and corruption.
How does the Duke, disguised as a friar, involve himself at the end of Act 2?
The Duke, still in disguise, plans to help Isabella and Claudio, using his knowledge of Angelo’s corruption to devise a scheme that will expose Angelo’s hypocrisy.
