Measure for Measure : Characters
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.
Characters
Major Characters
Duke Vincentio: He is the Duke of Vienna. He pretends to leave the city. He disguises himself as a friar to watch how Angelo rules.
Angelo: He is the Duke’s strict deputy. He enforces harsh laws. He desires Isabella and acts hypocritically.
Isabella: She is Claudio’s sister. She is about to become a nun. She faces a moral dilemma when Angelo asks her for something in return for her brother’s life.
Claudio: He is Isabella’s brother. He is sentenced to death for getting Juliet pregnant before marriage.
Mariana: She was engaged to Angelo. He abandoned her. She helps the Duke’s plan with the “bed trick.”
Escalus: He is a wise lord. He advises Angelo. He believes in mercy and justice.
Lucio: He is a talkative gentleman. He gossips and often acts foolishly.
Juliet: She is Claudio’s fiancée. She is pregnant with his child.
Mistress Overdone: She runs a brothel in Vienna. She represents the city’s immorality.
Pompey: He is a clown and servant to Mistress Overdone. He adds humor to the play.
Provost: He is the prison officer in charge. He sympathizes with Claudio and helps the Duke.
Elbow: He is a silly constable. He speaks incorrectly and provides comic relief.
Minor Characters
Friar Thomas: He helps the Duke disguise himself.
Friar Peter: He helps the Duke at the end of the play.
Justice: He works with Escalus and upholds the law.
Barnardine: He is a long-time prisoner. He refuses to be executed.
Abhorson: He is the prison executioner.
Non-speaking Characters
Officers, Lords, and Attendants: These characters help create Vienna’s background. They follow orders and perform small tasks.