Measure for Measure

Measure For Measure is one of Shakespeare's more difficult plays, in the "problem play" or "tragi-comedy" Genre. A play of moral consequences, Shakespeare borrows four literature archetypes.

1. The Corrupt Magistrate
2. The immoral deal or "deal with the Devil"
3. The bed swapping trick
4. The Disguised ruler

The sources  reveal a play of bawdiness and philosophy. 

Indeed the play moves between the sublime and the ridiculous.

Without detracting by retelling the plot, Some of the issues that M4M raise for me are:

• Is Isabella "lifeless" Does her wish to be become a nun reflect her fear of real life and the denunciation of Power, Status, and sex and all the joy and sadness that it brings. Is becoming a "bride of the lord" a cop out?
• What is justice? Following the law or following fairness
• When Vincentio saves Isabella by offering her marriage, how close is he to becoming Angelo?
• Vincentio  disguised as Friar Thomas is a religious symbol. This rest strangely with me. Imperfectly. Organised religion has a lot to answer for.