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Shakspeare, Measure for Measure. Act V, Scene I

1803, Engraving
Shakspeare, Measure for Measure. Act V, Scene I
Shakspeare, Measure for Measure. Act V, Scene I
Shakspeare, Measure for Measure. Act V, Scene I
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Category
Library Item
Item no
40223
Title
Shakspeare [Shakespeare]. Measure for Measure. Act V, Scene I
Description
ESCALUS: Such a fellow is not to be talked withal. Away with/ him to prison! Where is the provost? Away with him/ to prison! lay bolts enough upon him: let him/ speak no more. Away with those giglots too, and/ with the other confederate companion!
DUKE VINCENTIO:[To Provost] Stay, sir; stay awhile. [...]

The engraving depicts yet another final, dramatic act of a play, when everything is resolved. The artist put the emphasis on the dramatic tension of the unmasking of the Duke, and the embarrassment and general dismay of the bystanders, but especially Angelo’s. The Duke is bathed in light, which draws the viewers’ attention mostly to him, but the central figure is of the provost Angelo. He is leaning away from the duke whilst sitting on his throne, covering his face in shame. These two figures are the key figures in this scene, and the artist portrays the moment when the sinner realises that he is caught, and knows his fate is doomed. Isabella plays an important role in the play and later this scene as well, but Kirk chose to concentrate on the Duke and his once trusted friend. The print shows a tragic and dark moment in the comedy.
Engraver
Peter Simon
Date
1803
Size
64 x 51 cm
Type
Location
Art and Design Library
Rights and purchasing
Option
Price
Digital FileElectronic file 72 dpi JPEG
£6.10(inc. VAT 20%)
Digital FileElectronic File 300 dpi TIFF
£31.00(inc. VAT 20%)
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