Measure for Measure III

Handing over the reins of power

The very first word of the play is “Escalus,” which is spoken by the Duke. This is a Greek name, in fact it is the name of the first great Greek tragedist. Shakespeare’s spelling is different, but this is only apparent to one who reads the play, as opposed to views it performed. Shakespeare’s choice of first word draws our attention to the names of the characters. Most characters have Roman or Italian names, despite the fact that the play is set in Vienna. Measure for Measure is one of only seven plays where the names of the characters are supplied. Noticed two of the names that are supplied are never used in the play (the Duke’s and the nun’s).