MEASURE FOR MEASURE

These authoritative texts are among the most vital editions of Shakespeare's works available. Each volume includes facing-page text and notes, a chronology of Shakespeare's life and times, and a rich selection of critical and theatrical responses to each play over the centuries. Everyman's editions also offer unique forewords discussing performance of the plays, written by actors and actresses such as James Earl Jones, John Gielgud and Julie Harris. 　　The play examines the nature of mercy and justice, proposing that a good government is one that is flexible and based on common sense. The play opens with Vincentio, the Duke of Vienna, telling his deputy Angelo to govern his duchy while he travels to Poland. In actuality, the duke remains in Vienna disguised as a friar. Following the letter of the law, Angelo passes the death sentence on Claudio, a nobleman convicted for impregnating his betrothed, Juliet. Claudio's sister Isabella, a novice in a nunnery, pleads his case to Angelo, who offers to spare Claudio i