Measure for Measure · Chapter
Scene III explained
The Duke reveals to Friar Thomas his plan to disguise himself as a friar and observe Vienna while Lord Angelo enforces strict laws that have long been neglected, hoping to see if power changes a seemingly virtuous man.
What happens
The Duke reveals to Friar Thomas his plan to disguise himself as a friar and observe Vienna while Lord Angelo enforces strict laws that have long been neglected, hoping to see if power changes a seemingly virtuous man.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
The Duke plans to appear as a friar while testing whether Angelo's strict appearance hides hypocrisy.
Power and Authority
The Duke delegates his power to Angelo to enforce neglected laws, questioning how authority changes a person.
Characters to notice
- Duke Vincentio
Explains his motives for appointing Angelo and his plan to disguise as a friar.
- Friar Thomas
Listens to the Duke's plan and agrees to provide him with a friar's habit.
Key passages
“I have deliver’d to Lord Angelo, A man of stricture and firm abstinence, My absolute power and place here in Vienna”
I have given Lord Angelo, a man of strict self-discipline, my complete authority and position in Vienna.
The Duke explains his delegation of power to Angelo.
“We have strict statutes and most biting laws, The needful bits and curbs to headstrong weeds, Which for this nineteen years we have let slip”
We have harsh laws that have not been enforced for nineteen years.
The Duke admits to neglecting law enforcement.
“Lord Angelo is precise; Stands at a guard with envy; scarce confesses That his blood flows, or that his appetite Is more to bread than stone”
Lord Angelo is strict and guarded, barely admitting he has human desires.
The Duke describes Angelo's seemingly inhuman self-control.