The latest Arden edition of Shakespeare's dark comedy of justice, mercy and the governance of sexual desire.

Often described as one of Shakespeare’s ‘problem plays’, Measure for Measure explores issues of mercy and justice in corrupt Vienna. The Duke makes his strict moralistic deputy, Angelo, temporary leader of Vienna, while he disguises himself as a friar to witness all that ensues. In the comprehensive introduction to this new, fully-illustrated Arden edition, with commentary and notes from A. R. Braunmuller, Robert N. Watson explores the recent increased attention to the play and the shifting judgements of key characters such as the Duke and Isabella. He analyses the social foundations of these changes, their validity as readings of the text, and their manifestations in performance. It also explores the play’s implications on topics including love, marriage, sexuality, consent, mortality, religion, statecraft, moderation, and theatre itself.

"Showcasing his characteristic combination of sophistication and clarity, Watson offers a model of lucid critical coverage and adjudication… Braunmuller and Watson's edition makes excellent use of recent performance history." - Times Literary Supplement

"Offers lucid accounts of the play’s textual and performance history and provides a clear and reader-friendly text." - Shakespeare Survey

"An exceptionally thorough, astute, lively, and provocative exploration of all major and many secondary issues in this problem play." - Editionen in der Kritik