Measure for Measure is a play by William Shakespeare, believed to have
been written in 1603 or 1604 and first performed in 1604, according to
available records. It was published in the First Folio of 1623.
The play's plot features its protagonist, Duke Vincentio of Vienna, stepping
out from public life to observe the affairs of the city under the governance
of his deputy, Angelo. Angelo's harsh and ascetic public image is compared to
his abhorrent personal conduct once in office, in which he exploits his power
to procure a sexual favour from Isabella, whom he considers enigmatically
beautiful.