Duke (Character)

Question 1

How is the duke represented in measure for measure?

Question 2

How do critics view the duke in measure for measure? (postive)

Answer 2

• “the prophet of an enlightened ethic”
• Made to test the pathology of power in Vienna.

Question 3

How do critics view the duke in measure for measure? (negative)

Answer 3

• “more absorbed in his own plots and gravity than anxious for the well-being of the state”
• “The ultimate machiavellian ruler”

Question 4

How do characters see the duke? (positive)

Answer 4

• A gentleman of all temperance

Question 5

How do other characters see the duke? (negative)

Answer 5

• A very superficial, ignorant, unweighing fellow.
• Duke of dark corners

Question 6

The duke is more absorbed in his own plots and gravity than anxious for the well-being of the state as he displays a profound occupation with reputation and approval.

Answer 6

• “Twas my fault to give the people scope/ Twould be my tyranny to strike and gall them for what i bid them do.”
• Concerned with “millions of false eyes”
• “In the time the rod becomes more mocked than feared” and views himself as a “fond father.”

Question 7

The duke is psychologically calculating and cold blooded as he carries out his unethical experiment.

Answer 7

• “I have imposed on Angelo the office/ who may in my name strike home/ and yet my nature never in the fight to it slander”
• “lent him our terror and dressed him with our love”
• Tells Claudio to be absolute for death, tells Isabella callously her brother is dead. He lets the provost think he has lost his job for disobeying orders.

Question 8

He uses other as a means of self knowledge.

Answer 8

“contended to know himslef”
“I know him and I love him”

Question 9

In a favourable analysis of the duke he is a “prophet of an enlightened ethic” made to test the pathology of power in Vienna and desires order.

Answer 9

• “Hence we shall see if power change purpose what our seemers be.”
• “He wants advice”