Measure for Measure · Chapter
Scene VI explained
Isabella and Mariana prepare to publicly accuse Angelo, guided by Friar Peter, as the Duke returns to Vienna.
What happens
Isabella and Mariana prepare to publicly accuse Angelo, guided by Friar Peter, as the Duke returns to Vienna.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Manipulation
Isabella and Mariana are coached to speak indirectly and veil their true purpose, using deception to achieve justice.
Justice and Mercy
The planned public accusation seeks to expose Angelo's hypocrisy and secure justice for Claudio.
Characters to notice
- Isabella
Reluctant to speak indirectly but resolved to follow the Duke's plan to accuse Angelo.
- Mariana
Urges Isabella to be ruled by the Duke's advice and participates in the scheme.
- Friar Peter
Arranges a vantage point for Isabella and Mariana to confront the Duke upon his entry.
Key passages
“To speak so indirectly I am loath: I would say the truth; but to accuse him so, That is your part: yet I am advised to do it; He says, to veil full purpose.”
Isabella dislikes being indirect but agrees to accuse Angelo as instructed, hiding their true intent.
Isabella expresses her discomfort with deception while committing to the plan.
“Come, I have found you out a stand most fit, Where you may have such vantage on the duke, He shall not pass you.”
Friar Peter has arranged a spot where they can intercept the Duke as he enters.
Friar Peter positions Isabella and Mariana for their public accusation.