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Shakespeare in 101 words

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18 November 2016 / Roderick Ramage
Issue: 7723 / Categories: Features
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Roderick Ramage reworks William Shakespeare in bite-size format

Measure for Measure

The Duke appoints Angelo as his deputy to enforce Vienna’s morality laws, but stays, disguised as a friar. Angelo condemns Claudio to death for getting his fiancée pregnant. Isabella, pleads for her brother: Angelo will spare Claudio if she yields her virginity to him. The Duke overhears her tell Claudio of Angelo’s offer and persuades her to accept and go with Mariana, who loves Angelo and will take her place. Angelo decides to execute Claudio anyway, but the gaoler sends the head of another condemned man. Isabella and Marina confront Angelo. The Duke, abandoning his disguise, orders him to marry Mariana.

Much Ado About Nothing

The witty bickering between Benedict and Beatrice at the start foretells happily ever after at the end, while love at first sight between Claudio and Hero foretells troubled waters before the happy ending. The troublemaker is Don John, the formerly rebellious but now defeated brother of Don Pedro. His machinations result in Claudio denouncing Hero at the altar. Her

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