Historical Context (Measure for Measure)

This section explains the historical context of Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare. Measure for Measure reflects the social, political, and religious upheavals of early 17th-century England. Through its exploration of justice, morality, and authority, the play offers a critique of power and highlights the complexities of human nature. In the context of King James I’s reign, it serves as both a reflection on the challenges of governance and a meditation on mercy in the face of rigid legalism.

Political Context:

Measure for Measure was written around 1603-1604, at a time of significant political change in England. Queen Elizabeth I had recently died, and King James I had ascended to the throne. This transition marked the end of the Tudor dynasty and the beginning of the Stuart era.

King James I was known for his strong belief in the "Divine Right of Kings," which held that monarchs were appointed by God and, therefore, held absolute authority. This belief in the king’s near-infallible power is mirrored in Measure for Measure, where questions of authority, governance, and justice are central.

The play examines the tensions between absolute power and moral responsibility, themes particularly relevant under King James, who was also known for his deep interest in issues of law and government.

Religious Context:

England had recently experienced intense religious conflict, notably the English Reformation initiated by Henry VIII and subsequent Catholic-Protestant tensions under Elizabeth I. These divisions lingered into the early 17th century during James I's reign.

Measure for Measure grapples with issues of morality, sin, and redemption, set against a backdrop of rigid laws and religious influence. The Duke's decision to leave Angelo in charge reflects a kind of spiritual trial, where Angelo's strict enforcement of the law contrasts with more merciful Christian virtues.

The religious overtones of the play are especially pertinent in a society still working through the consequences of the Reformation, where questions of sin, penance, and forgiveness remained central to moral discourse.

Social Context:

During the early 17th century, London was expanding rapidly, and issues such as poverty, crime, and vice were becoming increasingly prominent. This is reflected in the play’s depiction of Vienna as a city overrun with licentiousness, and the tightening of laws against sexual immorality.

Prostitution and sexual misconduct were significant social concerns at the time. Brothels and taverns were often seen as sources of corruption, and the play’s focus on sexual morality would have resonated with contemporary audiences.

The character of Angelo embodies the puritanical enforcement of strict moral codes, whilst the Duke, disguised as a friar, provides an alternative view, advocating for mercy and understanding.

Legal Context:

The play revolves around the enforcement of Vienna’s strict legal codes concerning sexual morality. This reflects contemporary debates in England about how strictly laws should be enforced, particularly those relating to sexual conduct and social order.

In Shakespeare’s England, there were harsh punishments for fornication, adultery, and illegitimacy, as society placed a high value on maintaining public morality and social order. Angelo's imposition of the death penalty for Claudio’s offence of fornication reflects these concerns about controlling behaviour through law.

The title Measure for Measure directly references the biblical idea of justice—"an eye for an eye"—but the play also questions whether strict justice or mercy should prevail in legal and moral judgement. This legal quandary would have been a familiar issue to a Jacobean audience.

Gender and Power Dynamics:

Gender roles in Jacobean England were heavily influenced by patriarchal structures. Women had limited rights, and their sexual behaviour was tightly controlled by societal norms.

Isabella's character, in her decision to become a nun, represents a refusal to engage with the traditional roles assigned to women (marriage and childbearing). However, her virtue and chastity are still subject to male power, as Angelo attempts to manipulate her into surrendering her body to save her brother.

The play critiques the hypocrisy of those in power, particularly in their treatment of women. Angelo, who enforces harsh laws on sexual immorality, is himself guilty of lustful desires, highlighting the double standards that existed in society regarding male and female behaviour.

Genre and Themes of the "Problem Play":

Measure for Measure is often classified as one of Shakespeare’s "problem plays," blending elements of comedy, tragedy, and dark moral questions. This genre reflects the uncertain and transitional nature of the Jacobean period, where societal issues were complex and often lacked clear resolutions.

The play’s exploration of justice, mercy, morality, and the abuse of power resonates with a society undergoing legal and moral challenges. The ambiguous resolution, where the Duke proposes marriage to Isabella but her response is left unclear, adds to the sense that the play is asking more questions than it answers.

Understanding the historical context of Measure for Measure enriches its thematic depth, providing insight into the world Shakespeare inhabited and the societal issues that shaped his writing.