Day 2

Measure for Measure Lesson Plan

Discussion of Thought Questions

  1. 1

    What does Isabella mean when she says "'Tis set down so in heaven, but not in Earth" (2.4.52)?

    Isabella is responding to Angelo's claim that murder and fornication are equally sinful in the eyes of God. While agreeing with him, she makes clear that she knows that this is not the case on Earth. What she is referring to is not the law (as the law has essentially equated these), but the social order of Vienna that women live under. For Isabella, the loss of her virginity would be a fate worse than death, as it would destroy all her prospects. Though she does remain focused on saying that her brother's life is not worth this sin (a more celestial concern), she is...

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Join Now

Already a member? Log in