Measure for Measure: Act 1

The literal meaning of the Latin root refers to a sharp stone. This connects to the definition of "a unit of apothecary weight equal to 20 grains," which is suggested by the previous example. Here, the noun is used figuratively to suggest uneasiness (which can be caused by a stone in one's shoe); it also hints that the Duke is testing Angelo's scruples ("motivation deriving from moral principles").

The verb also means "prove capable or fit; meet requirements." While this definition does not fit the example, it is suggested by the exchange: the Duke argues that nature gave Angelo good qualities that he must use, while Angelo replies that there should be more tests to prove his qualification for ruling Vienna (which, to flatter the Duke, Angelo qualifies with the adjectives noble and great).

The noun also means "knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress." While this trait can be seen as wise, too much of it can also be a sign of self-consciousness. In avoiding public appearances that should confirm his strength and protection, the Duke places his own insecurity above the needs of his people.

In Latin, sanctus means "holy" and monium is a suffix meaning "state, condition" so the English adjective sounds like it should be a compliment. But it is used as an insult here to describe a pirate who changes religious laws to suit his own desires. Most of the characters who claim to be moral will be revealed as sanctimonious, especially the ironically named Angelo.

The Latin verb moderari is related to modus which means "measure." Thus, to moderate something is to keep it within the properly set measure. Here, in comparing what he has done to surfeit, Claudio seems like he is sorry: just like someone who has eaten too much and needs to fast, he has enjoyed his freedoms too much and is now turning to restraint (there is a visual pun on the physical restraints of shackles or fetters).

The noun also means "an uncalled-for burden." Both definitions fit: it can refer to Angelo who is enforcing the law, and it can refer to all the people who would feel the burden of this law that seeks to control their private lives.

The adjective also means "lacking a sense of restraint or responsibility" and "not yielding a return." All the definitions can fit. The Duke thinks that social gatherings are wasteful activities for the young and stupid. But his perspective is due to his old age and self-consciousness. He could also be described as idle ("not in action or at work"), since he prefers living a quiet, secluded life to enforcing the laws.

The word is used as a verb here. As a noun, it can mean "an open sore on the back of a horse caused by a saddle." In humans, gall is "a digestive juice secreted by the liver" which was once thought to produce "a feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill-will." Because the Duke wants his people to think highly of him, he does not punish them when they break the rules. Instead, he sends in Angelo to do his job.

The noun also means "discipline in personal and social activities." This is how Claudio used it earlier. Here, Isabella says she wants strict rules, which suggests that she might have trouble disciplining herself. Although the audience is never told why Isabella is considering entering a nunnery, the Duke's words to the friar suggest that one reason can be a broken heart. For 17th century women, life as a nun could often be freer and safer than being a wife and mother.