As with Shakespeare’s other “problem plays” that combine elements more commonly associated with either comedy or tragedy, the overall mood of Measure for Measure is ambivalent. This ambivalence arises from a combination of conflicting emotions, moral dilemmas, and contrasting tones that permeate the play. While the play contains humorous scenes and witty wordplay, it tackles serious themes such as justice, power, hypocrisy, and sexual morality. These various contrasts create an ambivalent mood that oscillates between humorous and introspective.
Additionally, characters in Measure for Measure are morally complex, and their actions and motivations often defy clear categorization as purely good or evil. The Duke, for example, is a virtuous and wise character, and yet he is also willing to manipulate others in order to bring about his goals, even lying to Isabella about the supposed death of her brother. He is, throughout the play, willing to use immoral means to bring about his ultimately positive ends.
Further, the lack of resolution at the play's ending contributes to its ambiguous mood. Angelo goes unpunished, though it is unclear if he has truly learned his lesson, and the Duke’s swift proposal of marriage to Isabella leaves her with no time to express her own thoughts on the matter. These tensions are not neatly resolved, and as a result, the ending is neither jubilant nor grave but open to interpretation, inviting a wide range of responses from audiences.
