Measure for Measure · Character
Abhorson
The grim executioner who takes Pompey as his assistant.
minor
Also known as Enter Abhorson, Abhorson Sirrah, Exeunt Abhorson, Abhorson Ay
First appearance: Scene II
Abhorson's tie to Duke Vincentio is one of the pressures that moves Measure for Measure—worth meeting in the text, not only on a cast list.
The executioner who reluctantly accepts Pompey as his helper, debating the dignity of his trade.
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With Duke Vincentio (professional): Abhorson, the executioner, interacts with the disguised Duke regarding the logistics of executions. With Barnardine (professional): Abhorson is the executioner assigned to execute the…
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The fuller portrait of Abhorson sits in Reading Lens — open the free preview to keep reading with notes on the page.
See Abhorson in Scene IICharacter Web
8 connectionsA slice of how Abhorson sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Professional
- Other
Character groups
- Minor supporting roles
- Central characters
+3 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because the Duke, now in his own habit, shifts from passive observer to acti…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingRelationships
- Duke Vincentio
professional · ambivalent
Abhorson, the executioner, interacts with the disguised Duke regarding the logistics of… How this plays out →
- Barnardine
professional · ambivalent
- Duke Vincentio
professional · ambivalent
Abhorson, the executioner, interacts with the disguised Duke regarding the logistics of… How this plays out →
- Barnardine
professional · ambivalent
Relationship notes
How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.
See Abhorson in Scene IIIn the story
Abhorson appears across 1 companion beat. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Abhorson unlock in the free preview.
See Abhorson in Scene II