Class and irony in the names of Measure for Measure

Abstract

In Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure, the character references evoke a simple theme, “Of government the properties to unfold” (1.1.3), as the Duke introduces his plan. The names and generics clearly mark class distinctions among the characters. Those with common status usually have lexical descriptions of their physical appearance or occupations. Such names might be described as redenden Namen, but they need to be understood semiotically. Specifically, such names are not just lexical descriptions but are symbolic by having dualistic references. The same types of dual references are also clear in the Latinate names of aristocrats. Thus, all the references have ironic meanings and evoke a comic vision of moral weaknesses at all levels.