Theme- Power Flashcards
The duke deputises to Angelo and gives him absolute power
“Mortality and mercy live in they tongue and heart”
Claudio discusses Angelo’s policies and decrees
“Thus can the Demi-god authority make us pay down for our offence by weight. The words of heaven on whom it will it will”
Claudio uses a metaphor of Angelo figuratively riding the public like a “horse”
Whether that the body public be a horse whereon the governor doth ride
Claudio feels victimised by Angelo’s decrees
“Now puts the drowsy and neglected act freshly on me, it’s surely for a name”
Shakespeare constructs the Duke to a powerful and revered character. Every aspect of his characterisation signifies power
Use of iambic pentameter, length monologues, knotted syntax.
Centres conversation around him “us” vs “you”
Subordinate characters use deferential language “your grace” “always obedient”
Use of abstract nouns “grace” “honour” “power”
The duke is paternalistic in his style of ruling
“Now as fond fathers”
“In time the rod becomes more mocked than feared”
The duke philosophises on liberty and justice
“And Liberty plucks Justice by the nose. The baby beats the nurse”
Why is Liberty personified?
Reference to Roman goddess Libertas who represents liberty and emancipation
Why is Justice personified?
Reflected to the blindfolded figure of Lady Justice who represents impartiality
The duke reveals why he has deputised to Angelo
“I have on Angelo imposed the office who may in the ambush of my name strike home” without doing “slander” to his “nature”
