The cast of Measure for Measure
The people who make Measure for Measure move — what they want, who they love, who they hate, and how each one fits the story. Tap any name to read more.
Sister is Isabellas
Ruler of Viennas
married to a woman he claims to detests
Sister of Claudios
Cousin to Isabellas
Other characters
Lucio
Witty gentleman and chronic gossip; voice of irreverent commentary on power and desire
Angelo
The deputy ruler; a man of austere virtue who falls to temptation
Escalus
Merciful lord and voice of moderation; the Duke's trusted counselor
The Provost
Jailer and moral compass; reluctant enforcer of Angelo's rigid decree
Pompey
A bawd's servant and comic voice of human nature
Mariana
Abandoned noblewoman whose bed trick restores her honor and saves Claudio
Mistress Overdone
A bawd and brothel keeper; voice of Vienna's underworld
Abhorson
The prison executioner, a professional who takes grim pride in his craft
First Gentleman
Witty courtier and friend of Lucio
Second Gentleman
Courtier and friend to Lucio; minor voice in Vienna's social circles
Master Froth
Foolish gentleman caught up in a vice charge · fourscore pounds a year
Barnardine
A hardened prisoner; a man unmoved by law, mortality, or authority · Nine years imprisoned
Friar Peter
Messenger and confessor; agent of the Duke's plan
Hear every line of Measure for Measure, narrated.
