What condition does Angelo offer to Isabella to pardon Claudio’s life?
Measure for Measure is a notable literary work by William Shakespeare. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Measure for Measure.
Answer
What condition does Angelo offer to Isabella to pardon Claudio’s life?
“Measure for Measure” (1623) is a dark comedy by William Shakespeare (1564-1616). In Shakespeare’s play “Measure for Measure,” Angelo, the deputy ruler of Vienna, offers Isabella a problematic proposal in exchange for her brother Claudio’s life. This offer highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters and explores themes of power, morality, and justice. Let’s discuss the conditions Angelo presents to Isabella to pardon Claudio’s life.
Proposal of Sacrificing Virginity: Angelo proposes to Isabella that he will spare her brother Claudio from execution if she agrees to surrender her virginity to him. He says,
“Your brother is a forfeit of the law,
And you but waste your words”.
Here, Angelo dismisses Isabella’s pleas for mercy and insists that Claudio must face the consequences of his actions. He uses Claudio’s situation as power to pressure Isabella into a compromising position. This highlights his abuse of power.
Manipulative Influence: Angelo exploits his position of authority to pressure Isabella into submission. He knows that as a deputy ruler, his word holds significant weight. He attempts to justify his proposal to Isabella. But Isabella refuses his proposal and threatens that she will tell the world about the evil motives of Angelo. She says,
“I’ll tell the world aloud
What man thou art”.
Angelo’s manipulation is evident as he uses his reputation and power to threaten Isabella into silence and compliance.
Threat of Consequences for Refusal: Angelo warns Isabella of bad consequences if she refuses his offer. He dismisses her threat to expose his lechery, saying,
“Who will believe thee, Isabel?”
Angelo’s assured dismissal highlights the power dynamics at play and Isabella’s vulnerability in the face of his authority. He portrays himself as untouchable. He leaves Isabella feeling trapped and powerless.
Angelo’s offer to Isabella in exchange for Claudio’s pardon illustrates the deepness of corruption and abuse of power in Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure.” Through manipulative persuasion and blackmail, Angelo seeks to maintain his dominance and control over Isabella. This unethical proposition serves as a key moment in the play. It raises questions about justice, morality, and the abuse of authority.