Homosocial Rivalry for Spirituality in Measure for Measure

Abstract

This essay explores male bonding and rivalry in Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure through the lens of Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick’s “homosocial desire,” particularly male protagonists’ rivalry for spiritual and moral superiority. While investigating the trajectory of the Duke’s empowerment, this paper attempts to analyze the Duke’s desire for a moral paragon in his state, which is triggered by his rivalry, first with Angelo and then with Isabella. As such, the sovereign intensifies his sovereign homosociality in the course of the play, not only solidifying his sovereignty but also overcoming alienation caused by his desire for reputation in conflict with his responsibility and culpability. Though not entirely successful, thus, the Duke’s restoration of the hypocritical deputy’s morality is mutually beneficial to their promotion, and such reciprocality is made possible by the Duke’s ambivalent attitude toward Angelo. And Isabella is significant in their spiritual companionship. On the one hand, she is trapped in their desire sharing; on the other hand, at the core of the their complicated relation stands Isabella, whose impact on these two men is sexually, spiritually, and psychologically significant. Therefore, this paper analyzes the monarch’s negotiation between his virtue and competence within the dynamics of male protagonists’ homosocial rivalry for spirituality.