Measure For Measure

The misuse of power. Personal freedom. Love contrasted with lust. Measure for Measure has been described as one of Shakespeare's "problem plays" but it seems more relevant than ever, as the current successful RSC production is
proving.

The state of Vienna — though it could be anywhere — has fallen into decay. Lenient government has resulted in corruption, vice and near anarchy. The Duke, seeking to restore morality, law and order, leaves, appointing his deputy.
Angelo imposes strict law enforcement, including an ancient statute forbidding sex before marriage. When lsabella’s brother is condemned to death, she is forced to plead for his life. Angelo demands her virginity, pursuing the very
thing he condemns in others. Elsewhere, now disguised as a monk, the Duke not only observes the extent of corruption and depravity in Vienna, but also intervenes in the troubled lives of his subjects.