Equity in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure

Shakespearean literature not only provides entertainment but also shares insight into the ideology of the times. In Measure For Measure, Shakespeare gives modern readers a glimpse of what was considered fair or equitable hundreds of years ago.

Shakespeare attempts to display proper equity immediately, as the play opens with the Duke leaving town, and appointing Angelo in charge. The Duke attempts to share his wisdom about leadership and the responsibilities that the privilege requires. Reminding Angelo "heaven doth with us as we with torches do, not light them for themselves," the Duke compares the light bestowed upon him from Heaven to a leader's ability to light a torch to brighten people's paths. Both should be passed on to others and shared rather than being lit for light's sake alone (585).

Further, the Duke clearly explains to Angelo that goodness unshared is wasted, as he says, "if our virtues did not go forth of us, 'twere all alike as if we had them not" (585). Discussing his travel plans, the Duke tells Angelo he gives his advice "to one that can my part in him advertise" (585). The Duke realizes that Angelo knows how to govern, but must have the opportunity to govern to fully understand the responsibilities that are associated with the position.

Upon his exit, the Duke grants Angelo "mortality and mercy in Vienna ... in thy tongue and heart" (585). Giving Angelo the authority to declare sentences involving life and death in his absence, the Duke plans to leave quietly.

In Act I, Scene 1, Shakespeare uses the Duke to explain his notions of equity and leadership. He thinks equity should be fair and just and consider the needs of others. However, in scene 2, Angelo proves to be a tough leader, not quite following the Duke's advice in some of the antics that ensue.

However, in Act 5, the Duke officially sorts out the messes created in his feigned absence. He allows fair and just punishment, rather than the death sentences that he initially scares everyone with when he declares " 'An Angelo for Claudio, death for death!' Haste still pays haste, and leisure answer leisure; like doth quit like and Measure still for Measure" (617). Almost as if following the advice he initially offers Angelo in Act 1 Scene 1, the Duke acts as a responsible and equitable leader.