Isabella in "Measure for Measure" Book Review by UNC Tarheels

This paper discusses how, as a resistant and subversive character in "Measure for Measure", Isabella combines the virtues of chastity and eloquence to attract men, while also demonstrating her stance on femininity through silence in moments of necessary speech. It looks at how she clearly possesses the skill of moving men with her articulate dialect, but also has the ability to draw men with her speechless dialect that is almost as effective as her verbal skill. It examines how her speech shows that she is submissive and that she is open to interpretation, thus provoking Antonio's lust for her and how on the other hand, her silence moves men to passion based solely on her passive character. Therefore, her chastity and both her eloquence of speech and her silence become her two most important powers.