Measure for Measure Group

Question:

ladeley4real
ladeley4real
Student
Graduate School

In "Measure for Measure," explain the statement "The law makers are the law breakers."

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Posted by ladeley4real on Wednesday January 16, 2008 at 2:57 PM and tagged with law breakers, law makers, meaning, measure for measure, quote.

Answers:


  1. malibrarian Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    Considering that this play is all about the potential corruption of people in power, I would say that the quote, "The law makers are the law breakers" would refer to the fact that Duke Vincentio is trying to catch those people of Vienna who are using their power for their own gain, rather than for the good of the people of Vienna. The people in power, "the law makers," have become those who simply do what they want to satisfy their own greed, lust, etc., "the law breakers."

    Unfortunately, in doing a quick re-read of the play, I cannot find that exact quote.  Can you let us know which act and scene number it can be found in?  That would better able us to give you a more precise answer next time.

    Check the links below for more information about this play - Good luck! :)

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/measure-measure/characters
    http://www.enotes.com/measure-measure/summary
    http://www.enotes.com/measure-measure/themes

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    Posted by malibrarian on Sunday January 20, 2008 at 5:20 PM