Measure for Measure: A Critical Reader

This scholarly guide to Measure for Measure highlights its unique position in the Shakespeare canon by covering its nuanced performance history and critical backstory.

Measure for Measure broke new ground in Shakespeare’s dramatic writing by rejecting the formulae of comedy and tragedy. Issues at the heart of the play including gender equality, rape, judicial process, political authority, slander, and equality before the law provide rich material for teaching and studying. Contributors connect the specifics of these themes from the early modern context to the present day and make crucial interventions to contemporary criticism on the play. Such interpretations explore how sexual politics, reputation, the reformation, ethics, and law shape Measure for Measure for a 21st century audience. Through a wide range of essays, the book provides a comprehensive guide to this criticism as well as its recent stage history that will be useful for scholars and students alike.