The cast of Measure for Measure
The people who make Measure for Measure move — what they want, who they love, who they hate, and how each one fits the story. Tap any name to read more.
Duke Vincentio
Absolute ruler of Vienna who abandons power to test his deputy's virtue · Middle-aged
Isabella
A novice seeking absolute chastity, caught between her brother's life and her virtue · almost fourteen
Lucio
Witty gentleman and chronic gossip; voice of irreverent commentary on power and desire
Angelo
The deputy ruler; a man of austere virtue who falls to temptation
Escalus
Merciful lord and voice of moderation; the Duke's trusted counselor
The Provost
Jailer and moral compass; reluctant enforcer of Angelo's rigid decree
Pompey
A bawd's servant and comic voice of human nature
Claudio
Young gentleman condemned to death for premarital sex; catalyst for the play's moral crisis · Young man
Elbow
Constable of Vienna; bumbling but well-meaning officer of the law
Mariana
Abandoned noblewoman whose bed trick restores her honor and saves Claudio
Mistress Overdone
A bawd and brothel keeper; voice of Vienna's underworld
Abhorson
The prison executioner, a professional who takes grim pride in his craft
First Gentleman
Witty courtier and friend of Lucio
Second Gentleman
Courtier and friend to Lucio; minor voice in Vienna's social circles
Master Froth
Foolish gentleman caught up in a vice charge · fourscore pounds a year
Barnardine
A hardened prisoner; a man unmoved by law, mortality, or authority · Nine years imprisoned
Friar Peter
Messenger and confessor; agent of the Duke's plan
Juliet
A young woman pregnant by Claudio, confined and penitent · Young woman
Hear every line of Measure for Measure, narrated.
