The lives of men are governed by interpretation. Interpreting the law is a very serious issue that Shakespeare feels the need to address. In Measure for Measure, we see the passing of the torch from the Duke to Angelo, “In our remove be thou at full ourself; Mortality and mercy in Vienna live in thy tongue and heart” (1.1.41-43). But with this shift in authority comes a shift in interpretation.  Where the Duke was lax for “nineteen zodiacs” (1.2.167), Angelo will “strike home” (1.3.44). A difference in an interpretation of the law is crutial as is displayed here in the first act. It means the difference between life and death for Claudio who believes he is being used to set an example in order for Angelo to build a reputation for himself; “and, for a name, now puts the drowsy and neglected act freshly on me:- ’tis surely for a name” (1.2.168-170). The idea of interpretation is also significant because it is other men doing the judging. This is problematic because the men doing the judging and interpreting are just as fallable, full of vices, as the men being judged. Even the Duke questions Angelo’s character suggesting that power can corrupt even the purest of heart, “hence shall we see, if power change purpose, what our seemers be” (1.3.57). I think we are being forced to consider the extent of which the law is flawed. We need to consider the complications that arise and the effects a flawed law has on those governing, the governed, and the society as a whole.

I think we must also consider the role of women within the law as we read further. It will be interesting to see how powerful they can be behind the scenes. Lucio certainly believes in their convincing capabilities:

“Go to Lord Angelo, and let him learn to know, when maidens sue, men give like gods; but when they weep and kneel, all their petitions are as freely theirs as they themselves would owe them” (1.4.76-81).