THE LITERARY FORM

It is extremely difficult to clearly classify Measure for Measure as a single form of drama. Through history, it has been called a tragedy, a comedy, a tragi-comedy, and even a satire. Some critics have even regarded Measure for Measure as an allegory, with the Duke as the Lord, Angelo as the fallen angel, and Isabella as the Virgin Mary. There is also romantic intrigue in Measure for Measure, for the play is filled with impersonation, misunderstanding, love gone wrong, and love gone right. Judged as a Christian parable, the play is a plea for justice and mercy.

It is definitely difficult to categorize Measure for Measure. At best, it is probably called a tragicomedy, since the play offers a tragic theme but with a happy closure

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