How effective is Act 1 Scene 1 as an opening scene for Measu

The opening scene in a play is usually important in giving readers an initial impression of the entire play. I believe that act 1, scene 1 of Measure for Measure is effective as an opening scene to a large extent as it introduces some of the themes of the play and sets the stage for darker happenings. It also gives us the first impressions of the characters Duke Vincentio, Escalus and Angelo and acts as a precursor to other similar occurrences in later scenes.

To be effective as an opening scene, the scene should have the key features, that is, the portrayal of the main characters, relationships and the main elements and themes of the plot. This is done through several different ways in the scene.

Measure for Measure opens in a legalistic, austere tone as we see the Duke of Vienna and Escalus conversing. The Duke of Vienna is lamenting at the lavish, overindulgent and spoilt state of his city but mentions that he has to go away. He thus suggests for Angelo to take over his place during his absence and consults Escalus on his opinions about Angelo. He also mentions that by giving Angelo his position temporarily, Angelo would have to be “lent” the

Scene one also helps us to understand some of the characters skeletally. We are able to establish that Escalus is an impartial, honest man, the only truly transparent and straightforward character in the entire play. We see his lack of envy at the fact that Angelo has been chosen over him, although he is more senior. He also praises Angelo to “ be of worth to undergo such ample grace and honour” to be given the task of replacing the Duke. His worth and genuine wisdom is also seen as the Duke praises him and asks him to assist Angelo whenever possible. His appearance in scene one helps to contribute to the effectiveness, as his presence maintains the idea of wisdom and justice throughout the play, where ambiguity and elusiveness reign.

The entire scene is conversed in rather legalistic, formal language, which belies nothing of the raucous, bawdy language that we will be exposed to in some of the later scenes including the common folk. This scene is spoken in verse, and makes use of various abstract ideas to bring across the message. Also, we are only presented with the righteous side of Angelo, and thus know zilch about his imminent transformation to an immoral person, unworthy of the role he has been entrusted.

Another theme introduced in scene one is that of privacy and public roles. The Duke, once again, represents the private self and public persona. He knows that as a public figure of authority, it is necessary for him to be in the limelight and set an example to his citizens, but as a private person, he wishes to shy away from all the overwhelming attention and affection he is bestowed. This theme is especially important, as it serves a greater significance in the play later on, when we see characters struggling between their privat

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