Social Injustice in Measure for MeasureSocial justice is a well-known topic in today's society. Issues such as social hierarchical structure and unjust representatives of nations' citizens deserve the attention of those in power. The corruption, lies, and greed of those in power, however, prevent this form of justice from occurring, leaving many people with little or no social status exposed to prejudice based on race, religion, and gender. William Shakespeare illustrates the ease with which power can corrupt in his play Measure for Measure. In Measure for Measure, a ruler corrupts the legal system for his own benefit. Vienna is ruled by Angelo, a name reflecting the "bad angel", and the city has been outraged by his corrupt ways. The play is based on Claudio's trial and the injustice meted out to him by the corrupt ruler for a crime that some would consider insignificant. Claudio had made love to his fiancée before their marriage. At that time in Vienna, this was a crime punishable by death and Angelo was quick to realize this, sending Claudio to prison and sentencing him to death. In justice studies, we have learned that justice depends on the situation and that it seems completely unfair to a couple who is considering marriage. After Claudio is sentenced to death, Shakespeare creates an interesting turn of events showing how corrupt leaders can be. Once Claudio's sister Isabella, a novice nun, approaches Angelo to challenge his decision and beg for mercy, he tells her that to save her brother she will have to give up her virginity to him:Angelo: "N' admit no other way of saving his life - for I do not subscribe to this, nor to any other, but to the loss of the question - than you, his sister, finding yourself desired by such a person, whose credit with the judge , or his own place, may fetch your brother from the manacles of the law which imposes him, and that there was no earthly means to save him, but that either you must lay down the treasures of your body for that, or let him suffer: what would you do for my brother and for me?: