Measure for Measure · Character
Barnardine
A drunken prisoner who refuses to be executed on schedule.
minor
Also known as Pompey Master Barnardine, Master Barnardine, Barnardine Friar, this Barnardine
First appearance: Scene II
Barnardine's tie to Abhorson is one of the pressures that moves Measure for Measure—worth meeting in the text, not only on a cast list.
A condemned murderer who is deeply asleep and indifferent to death; the Duke plans to substitute his head for Claudio's.
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With Abhorson (professional): Abhorson is the executioner assigned to execute the condemned prisoner Barnardine. With Abhorson (professional): Abhorson is the executioner assigned to execute the condemned prisoner…
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The fuller portrait of Barnardine sits in Reading Lens — open the free preview to keep reading with notes on the page.
See Barnardine in Scene IICharacter Web
11 connectionsA slice of how Barnardine sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Professional
- Other
Character groups
- Central characters
- Minor supporting roles
- Protagonist
+6 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…
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Follow the arc while readingRelationships
- Abhorson
professional · ambivalent
Abhorson is the executioner assigned to execute the condemned prisoner Barnardine. How this plays out →
- Abhorson
professional · ambivalent
Abhorson is the executioner assigned to execute the condemned prisoner Barnardine. How this plays out →
Relationship notes
How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.
See Barnardine in Scene IIIn the story
Barnardine appears across 2 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Barnardine unlock in the free preview.
See Barnardine in Scene II