# Scene III explained — Measure for Measure

> Chapter companion for Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

The Duke, still disguised as a friar, orchestrates the substitution of Ragozine's head for Claudio's to deceive Angelo. He informs Isabella of Claudio's supposed execution and directs her to accuse Angelo publicly. Meanwhile, the comedic subplot involving Pompey, Abhorson, and the recalcitrant Barnardine unfolds, culminating in the provost's discovery of Ragozine's timely death, which enables the Duke's plan.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Manipulation

The Duke's elaborate scheme to substitute Ragozine's head for Claudio's and his manipulation of Isabella's emotions exemplify the theme of deception.

### Death and Mortality

The impending executions of Claudio and Barnardine, along with the casual mention of Ragozine's death, highlight the omnipresence of mortality.

### Power and Authority

The Duke's behind-the-scenes control over the justice system and Angelo's authority over life and death underscore the theme of power.

## Character check-ins

### Duke Vincentio

Disguised as a friar, he orchestrates the head substitution and instructs Isabella to accuse Angelo.

### Isabella

Learns of Claudio's supposed death and is directed by the Duke to seek justice against Angelo.

### Lucio

Interrupts the Duke and Isabella, making crude remarks about the Duke and boasting of his own misdeeds.

### Pompey

Lists the prisoners in the jail and assists Abhorson in summoning Barnardine for execution.

### Barnardine

Refuses to be executed, claiming he is unprepared after a night of drinking.

### Provost

Reports Ragozine's death and collaborates with the Duke to substitute the head.

## Key lines

> He hath released him, Isabel, from the world: His head is off and sent to Angelo.

He has freed Claudio from life; his head has been cut off and sent to Angelo.

_The Duke falsely informs Isabella of Claudio's execution to test her resolve._

> O, 'tis an accident that heaven provides!

Oh, this is a fortunate coincidence sent by heaven!

_The Duke rejoices at Ragozine's death, seeing it as a providential opportunity to substitute the head._

> I swear I will not die to-day for any man's persuasion.

I swear I will not die today, no matter how anyone tries to convince me.

_Barnardine stubbornly refuses to be executed, claiming he is not prepared._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/measure_for_measure_se/chapters/act-iv-scene-iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/measure_for_measure_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/measure_for_measure_se/chapters