Much Ado About

Nothing
Study Guide by Course Hero

the title is through the lens of Elizabethan language, when the

What's Inside word nothing was slang for female genitalia. This reading
signals the play is about female sexuality.

j Book Basics ................................................................................................. 1

d In Context ..................................................................................................... 1
d In Context
a Author Biography ..................................................................................... 2

h Characters .................................................................................................. 3
Theater in the Elizabethan Era
k Plot Summary ............................................................................................. 7
William Shakespeare is thought to have written Much Ado
c Act Summaries ........................................................................................ 12 About Nothing between 1598 and 1599. Shakespeare's writing
occurred during the Elizabethan era, which was named for
g Quotes ........................................................................................................ 25
Queen Elizabeth I of England, who ruled from 1558 to 1603. An
l Symbols ..................................................................................................... 28 avid fan of music, poetry, and drama, Elizabeth's ascension to
the throne ushered in the English Renaissance movement. One
m Themes ...................................................................................................... 28 of her most important contributions to the arts was approving
the construction of the first public theaters in the country,
b Motifs .......................................................................................................... 30
which gave audiences many opportunities to see the latest

e Suggested Reading ............................................................................... 31 work of national playwrights, whose works were departing
from the religious and turning toward the secular.

The Church of England often opposed the views imparted by

j Book Basics
opinionated playwrights, and it condemned theater in general
for being vulgar. Parliament was known to shut down plays on
the grounds of profanity, heresy, or opposing political
AUTHOR viewpoints. Theater companies got around these objections by
William Shakespeare establishing theaters outside of London's city limits, which
were still accessible to the general population. As many as
YEARS WRITTEN
3,000 people could fit in some of these theaters, and they
1598–99
came from all walks of life. Performances, which usually took
GENRE place in the afternoon, were rowdy affairs.
Comedy
Suspicious of those who chose to make their living in the
ABOUT THE TITLE theater, church officials often characterized actors as
The title Much Ado About Nothing suggests the conflict of this bohemians lacking morals. Acting troupes like the Lord
play is about nothing, as one of the characters is accused of Chamberlain's Men, of which Shakespeare was a member,
something that didn't actually happen. A second way to view were comprised entirely of males. It was unseemly (and illegal)
Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Author Biography 2

for a woman to be onstage, so female roles were played by husband. Upon his death a widow would receive only one-third
young boys. of the property her husband owned in his lifetime even if that
property used to be hers. Many women found ways to get
around this law, and it wasn't unusual for women to inherit
Gender Roles in 16th-Century property from their female relatives. Both sons and daughters
were allowed to inherit property from their parents. Property
England ownership and the ability to earn money allowed women a
modicum of independence in a society that placed emphasis
As in most societies prior to the 20th century, women played a on the education and success of men.
secondary role to men in Elizabethan England, especially in
public. The stereotype of the typical Elizabethan women, as
often portrayed in literature, is that she was chaste, modest, Sex in the Elizabethan Era
subservient, and wholly dependent on the men in her life—first
her father, then her husband. In those portrayals marriage is Sex was considered to be a natural part of life in Elizabethan
expected as unmarried women didn't have any means of England. Women were expected to remain virgins until
supporting themselves. That portrayal simply isn't accurate. It marriage, but most people thought it acceptable if an engaged
was made popular by the "conduct books" of the 16th century, couple had intercourse between the agreement to marry and
which served as manuals for the upper class on how to be the actual wedding ceremony. Historians estimate as many as
good Christians. Though some people adhered to the 30 percent of women were pregnant on their wedding days, as
standards presented by these so-called authorities on morals was Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway.
and behavior, that wasn't how most people lived their lives.
It was of utmost importance for a woman to maintain her
There were, of course, great differences between men's and virginity until she was at least engaged to be married. Rumors
women's roles in Elizabethan England. Most are rooted in about premarital experiences not only harmed the woman's
schooling. Boys attended grammar school from the age of six reputation, but her father's and her husband's as well. It was a
or seven, then either did an apprenticeship in a trade or father's duty to protect his daughter's chastity during her
continued their education at university. With a few exceptions formative years. Likewise a wife's faithfulness was a reflection
for the upper class, girls were schooled at home during their of her husband's status and his ability to control her. After
grammar school years. Their education focused on chastity marriage any expression of female sexuality, particularly
and the household arts of cooking, cleaning, and sewing. Girls feminine desire, was considered deeply disturbing. Many
from wealthy families could learn reading, writing, and the people thought women couldn't control their lustful urges. As a
keeping of accounts in the homes of family friends. The lack of result it was quite common for men to fear their wives'
formal education for women during the Elizabethan era led to a infidelity. This concern preoccupies the male characters in
disparity between what men and women were thought to be Much Ado About Nothing.
capable of, when, in reality, women were rarely given the
chance to develop or show their abilities and talents.

The division of labor between men and women was fairly

a Author Biography
straightforward. Men earned the bulk of the family's income
while women took care of the home. That often included Baptized on April 26, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England,
earning money from household duties. Housewives sold the William Shakespeare began and ended his formal education in
products of their gardens, chicken coops, and spinning wheels grammar school where he would have learned how to read,
at market, and they were wholly responsible for the marketing write, and speak Latin, and where he studied the works of
and bookkeeping of their wares. This was especially important classical historians and poets. He didn't attend university, and
to women who were not married or under a male relative's at age 18 he found himself at the head of his own family. He
care. Women were allowed to own property in Elizabethan married Anne Hathaway, a 26-year-old farmer's daughter, in
England, but the laws were such that as soon as a woman November, 1582, and their first child was born six months later.
married all of her property became the property of her Twins followed within two years.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Characters 3

Very little is known about Shakespeare's professional life past. Despite his promise to never marry, he finds himself
between the end of grammar school and 1592. Scholars have falling in love with Beatrice after hearing she is in love with him.
varying theories regarding how he spent his time, ranging from His affection for her is tested after Claudio slanders Hero, and
service in the armed forces to taking care of theater-goers' Benedick proves his love for Beatrice by siding with the
horses during dramatic productions. By 1592 Shakespeare had wronged woman instead of his old friends.
settled himself in London while his family remained in
Stratford-upon-Avon. He quickly made a name for himself as
an actor and writer in the Lord Chamberlain's Men, the best Beatrice
theater troupe in the city.
Beatrice is an orphan and under the guardianship of her uncle,
Many of Shakespeare's early works fall within the genre of
Leonato. Though she is of noble blood and resides in the
romantic comedy.The Comedy of Errors (c. 1589–94), Love's
governor's home, Beatrice does not fit the mold of the
Labour's Lost (c. 1588–97), and The Taming of the Shrew (c.
traditional Elizabethan woman. Opinionated, outspoken,
1590–94) helped him establish a successful formula for
stubborn, independent, and full of wit, she declares herself
romantic comedy, which usually included:
averse to love. She is deeply distrustful of men, Benedick in

a young, witty woman who is at odds with her male suitor; particular. They have a long, unspecified history together, and

strife and turmoil as the young couple determines their the reader eventually learns Benedick broke Beatrice's heart.

respective places in society and courtship; When the play begins, Beatrice seems interested only in

a marriage that seems to resolve all conflict. insulting Benedick at every opportunity, but she softens at
once when she overhears Benedick loves her. She quickly
Much Ado About Nothing, which Shakespeare wrote sometime acknowledges she loves him in return.
between 1598 and 1599, was heavily influenced by these
earlier romantic comedies. Though the Claudio/Hero plot was
adapted from several classical stories, scholars believe the Claudio
Beatrice/Benedick plot was inspired by the dual plotline and
tart-tongued lead female character Katherine or Kate in The Claudio is a young soldier from Florence, Italy, who earned Don
Taming of the Shrew. Pedro's praise and friendship during battle. He returns to
Messina with a heart open to love and finds it in Hero. Claudio's
Shakespeare wrote plays and sonnets for 20 years before
youth marks him as both rash and insecure. He is quick to want
retiring to his hometown in 1612. He died on April 23, 1616.
to marry Hero and even quicker to cast her aside, believes
rumors from untrustworthy sources not once but twice, and
neglects every opportunity to ascertain the truth. Threatened
h Characters by Hero's alleged infidelity, he not only calls off the wedding, he
publicly shames Hero to make himself feel superior. He shows
no remorse upon Hero's "death" until he learns her slander was

Benedick part of a nefarious plot orchestrated by Don John. Only then

does Claudio feel bad for what he has done to his so-called
true love.
Benedick is from Padua in northern Italy. He's a soldier in the
prince's regiment and a close friend of Don Pedro himself.
Benedick is older than Claudio and is a self-avowed bachelor.
He is known as something of a ladies' man but swears never to
Don Pedro
marry as he believes women are incapable of remaining faithful
Don Pedro is the Prince of Aragon. As such he is the person of
to their husbands. He has a quick wit and a silver tongue, and
highest rank in Much Ado About Nothing. Though he does not
his friends and acquaintances look to him for a hearty laugh
end up with a wife at the end of the play, he considers himself
(often at his expense). Benedick is in a constant war of words
to be something of an expert lover as he woos Hero for
with Beatrice, with whom he has been romantically linked in the
Claudio and offers himself as husband to Beatrice. As a leader

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Characters 4

his greatest fault is his innate loyalty to those who may not back, she lets others take the lead in restoring her reputation.
deserve it. Instead of believing Hero's claims she is innocent, Hero still wants to marry Claudio despite the shame he brings
he believes the word of his brother, with whom he only recently upon her, which is a sign of both her forgiving nature and her
reconciled after a bitter feud. Don Pedro also falls victim to his acceptance of letting men run her life.
own vanity when his perfect match is called into question and,
with Claudio, he ensures the destruction of Hero's reputation.

Leonato
As the governor of Messina, Leonato is used to being in charge
of not only his family but his city as well. Don Pedro's arrival
changes the hierarchy of power. Though Don Pedro does not
rule Messina, Leonato often defers to him out of respect for his
title and his status as a guest. They have a friendly relationship
until Hero's virtue is called into question. Leonato then breaks
with social norms and supports the word of his daughter, a
woman, rather than that of the high-ranking prince. He is more
loyal to family than he is to power.

Don John
Don John has been marked as inadequate since birth because
he was the product of an illegitimate relationship. He and Don
Pedro, his half brother, have only recently mended their broken
relationship when the play begins, and it is soon clear that Don
John's part of the reconciliation was superficial at best. He
knows he will never be as good as his brother the prince, so he
decides to not even try and becomes a self-proclaimed villain.
He's not even very good at that. He relies on Borachio to come
up with and execute the plan to prevent the wedding between
Claudio and Hero. He skips town when the deed is done, which
is the next closest thing to admitting his guilt. He is caught at
the play's end, but his punishment remains unknown.

Hero
Hero embodies the traits of what is often presented in classic
literature as being the feminine ideal. She is modest, reserved,
chaste, and happy to defer to her father's guidance. Hero is
younger than Beatrice but old enough to marry. She is initially
prepared to accept a proposal from Don Pedro, but she seems
just as happy to be engaged to Claudio instead. Hero is unable
to prove her innocence when accused of having a romantic
relationship with a man other than Claudio. Instead of fighting

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Characters 5

Character Map

Father

Beatrice
Feisty, quick-witted
lady; disdains love

Uncle Cousins

Hero
Leonato Repressed
Warm and virtuous daughter;
Elderly governor of Messina lovers
model Elizabethan woman

Benedick
Friends Clever soldier and lord from Betrothed
Padua; abhors marriage

Friends

Friends

Claudio
Don Pedro Young soldier and lord
Playful Prince of Aragon from Florence; gullible
and rash

Half-
Despises
brothers
Don John
Spiteful, calculating
villain; bastard by birth

Friends

Main Character

Other Major Character

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Characters 6

Minor Character

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Plot Summary 7

Full Character List Friar Francis

The friar is supposed to marry Hero
and Claudio. He has no doubt of
Hero's innocence.
Character Description
Margaret, one of Hero's gentlewomen,
Margaret is unknowingly part of the plot to
Benedick is one of Don Pedro's
break up Hero and Claudio.
Benedick soldiers and friends. He both despises
and loves Beatrice.
The messenger brings news of Don
Messenger
Pedro's imminent arrival.
Beatrice is Leonato's niece and Hero's
Beatrice cousin. She both despises and loves
Benedick. George Seacoal, who reports to
Seacoal Dogberry, is the leader of the prince's
watch.
Claudio is one of Don Pedro's best
Claudio soldiers, as well as his best friend. He
loves Hero, then forsakes her. Second The second watchman reports to
watchman Dogberry.
Prince of Aragon, Don has just come
Don Pedro
back from battle with his battalion. The sexton, who takes care of the
local church, takes notes during
Sexton
Dogberry's interrogation of Conrade
The governor of Messina, Leonato is
Leonato and Borachio.
father to Hero and uncle to Beatrice.

Ursula Ursula is one of Hero's gentlewomen.

Don John, the villain of the play, is the
Don John
illegitimate half brother of Don Pedro.
Verges is Dogberry's second-​in-
Verges
command.
Hero is Leonato's daughter, Beatrice's
cousin, and Claudio's love interest.
Hero
She is mistakenly thought to be
unchaste.
k Plot Summary
Antonio is Leonato's older brother and
Antonio
Hero's uncle.
Much Ado About Nothing takes place in Messina, Italy, in the
late 1500s. The play opens as Don Pedro and his soldiers
Balthasar is Don Pedro's servant who
Balthasar arrive at the home of Leonato, the governor of Messina.
dances with Margaret at the ball.
Leonato has a modest and virtuous daughter, Hero. He is also
the guardian of Beatrice, Hero's quick-witted, sharp-tongued
Don John's friend Borachio comes up
Borachio with the plan that ultimately separates older cousin. Beatrice has been long engaged in a "merry war"
Claudio and Hero. of words with Benedick, one of Don Pedro's soldiers. They are
back to their verbal battle within a matter of moments of the
Conrade Conrade is Don John's friend. soldiers' arrival, each declaring they do not believe in love or
marriage. Meanwhile Claudio, a young soldier from Florence,
Dogberry is Messina's dim-​witted falls instantly in love with Hero. He asks Don Pedro to help him
Dogberry
constable. woo her during the evening's festivities.

The first watchman reports to Also returning from battle is Don John, Don Pedro's illegitimate
First watchman
Dogberry. half brother and self-described villain. Don John despises
Claudio and intends to make him miserable at every turn. Don
John and his friends devise a plan to convince Claudio that

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Plot Summary 8

Don Pedro wants Hero for himself. Easily duped, Claudio first remember how much he loved her and he will see the error of
believes this lie and sulks, but he is all smiles when he realizes his ways.
Don Pedro has wooed Hero for Claudio. Although Claudio
wants to marry Hero as soon as possible, Leonato convinces In the midst of all this, Benedick and Beatrice confess their

him it will take at least a week to make the wedding love for one another. Beatrice is distraught about her cousin's

preparations. Don Pedro decides they will pass the time by fate, and Benedick promises he will do all he can to make

convincing Beatrice and Benedick they are secretly in love with things right. He ends up agreeing to challenge Claudio to a

each other. duel, and he's not the only one. Leonato's brother, Antonio,
tries to fight Claudio. Although Claudio feels no remorse over
Benedick is the first victim of this scheme, for he overhears the news of Hero's death, things change when Dogberry and
Don Pedro, Leonato, and Claudio talking about how much the watch arrive with Conrade and Borachio in tow. Borachio
Beatrice loves him. Benedick is certain his friends tell the truth, confesses to the plot to slander Hero. Don Pedro and Claudio
particularly the elderly Leonato. He vows he will requite feel horrible about the role they played in Hero's death, and
Beatrice's love and make her his wife despite his previous they pledge to do anything they can to make it up to Leonato.
vehemence against marriage. Hero and Ursula play the same Leonato tells Claudio he must marry Antonio's daughter, who
trick on Beatrice, and she falls for it just like Benedick. looks very much like Hero.

As Beatrice and Benedick come to grips with their secret The makeup wedding takes place the next day. Claudio is
feelings for one another, Don John tries to figure out a way to presented with a masked bride he vows to marry. The woman
stop Hero and Claudio's wedding. Borachio crafts a plan to removes the mask, revealing herself as the very alive Hero.
slander Hero's good name. Don John will tell Claudio and Don Everyone is delighted. Benedick, who had been planning to
Pedro that Hero isn't as virtuous as everyone thinks, then take marry Beatrice, has figured out he and Beatrice were duped
them outside at midnight to prove it. Borachio will be at Hero's into falling for one another. They agree their feelings run no
window with Margaret, Hero's gentlewoman, who will be deeper than friendship. But nobody believes this and Claudio
dressed in Hero's clothing, suggesting that Hero has taken a produces a love poem written by Benedick while Hero shows
lover behind Claudio's back. Claudio will think Margaret is Hero, one written by Beatrice. Outed by their own hands, Benedick
Hero's reputation will be ruined, and the wedding will be called and Beatrice give in and agree to marry. The happy couples
off. The plan works, and Claudio vows to shame Hero at the dance as news arrives of Don John's arrest.
wedding the next morning.

After the deed is done, Borachio goes into town and blabs to
Conrade about what happened. Their conversation is
overheard by the night watch. Borachio and Conrade are
arrested for slander by the clownish constable, Dogberry. He
proceeds to Leonato's home the next morning, but between
Leonato's impatience and Dogberry's overwhelming desire to
impress, he ends up being sent away without telling Leonato
what he came to tell him—Hero's life is about to be ruined.

The day of the wedding is ugly. Claudio accuses Hero for being
unchaste and having relations with another man. Don Pedro
backs him up. Leonato is furious with Hero since he believes
Claudio and thinks that her actions have ruined his reputation.
Claudio and Don Pedro leave the church, but Benedick stays
behind. Beatrice swears to him Hero is innocent of the charges
brought against her. Friar Francis comes up with a way to clear
her reputation. They will pretend she has died from the shame
of Claudio's accusations. Her death will make Claudio

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Plot Summary 9

Plot Diagram

Climax

11

10
12
9
Falling Action

Rising Action 8
13
7

6 14
5
15
4
Resolution
3

2
1

Introduction

9. The night watch arrest Conrade and Borachio.

Introduction
10. Leonato turns away Dogberry on the morning of the
wedding.
1. The soldiers arrive in Messina.

Climax
Rising Action
11. Claudio publicly shames Hero at their wedding.
2. Beatrice and Benedick resume their "merry war" of words.

3. Claudio falls in love with Hero.

4. Don John tells Claudio that Don Pedro woos Hero. Falling Action

5. Borachio comes up with a plan to slander Hero. 12. Hero pretends to be killed by Claudio's slander.

6. Benedick loves Beatrice after hearing she loves him. 13. Borachio admits to his misdeeds; Hero is innocent.

7. Beatrice loves Benedick after hearing he loves her. 14. Claudio mourns Hero's death.

8. Don John reveals that Hero is unfaithful.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Plot Summary 10

Resolution

15. Claudio and Hero and Beatrice and Benedick are to marry.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Plot Summary 11

Timeline of Events

Monday evening

Claudio and Hero get engaged at a masked ball; Don

Pedro plans to join Benedick and Beatrice.

Tuesday

Borachio and Don John conspire to slander Hero and

ruin the impending wedding.

Later that week

Benedick and Beatrice separately overhear

conversations designed to make them fall in love.

Sunday

Don John tells Claudio and Don Pedro that Hero is not a
maid, inviting them to see proof that night.

Monday, after midnight

The night watch arrests Borachio and Conrade after

overhearing how Hero was slandered.

Monday

Claudio and Don Pedro shame Hero at the wedding

ceremony.

Later that day

Beatrice and Benedick admit their love for one another.

Benedick vows to avenge Hero's reputation.

Later that day

The truth comes out about the plot to slander Hero, who
Claudio thinks is now dead. He mourns.

Tuesday

Hero is revealed to be alive and well. Claudio and Hero

plan to marry, as do Benedick and Beatrice.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 12

Claudio's name.
c Act Summaries
William Shakespeare divided Much Ado About Nothing into five Analysis
acts. This study guide provides a summary and analysis of
each scene within each act. Much Ado About Nothing takes place in Messina, Italy. At the
time of the play's writing, it was a small port town under
Spanish rule (which is why Don Pedro is Spanish while
Act 1, Scene 1 everyone else is Italian). As governor of Messina, Leonato is
the most important man in town. His home is most likely the
grandest around, and its orchards hint at a rural backdrop. This
is a change from the battlefields Don Pedro and his soldiers
Summary recently left behind. For them being in Messina is a holiday. A
mood of revelry informs their actions at the beginning of the
Much Ado About Nothing opens at the home of Leonato, the
play.
governor of Messina, Italy. A messenger brings word to him, his
daughter, Hero, and his niece, Beatrice, that Don Pedro, the Most of the characters in the play have met before. Don Pedro
Spanish Prince of Aragon, is due to arrive any moment with his and Leonato are friends of old, and Claudio remembers looking
battalion. The warriors are returning home from war victorious, upon Hero before he left for the war. It is Benedick and
thanks in particular to young Claudio, who "hath borne himself Beatrice, however, who have the most intriguing history. The
beyond the promise of his age, doing in the figure of a lamb the nature of their relationship isn't explicitly stated, but it most
feats of a lion." Also amongst Don Pedro's men will be certainly has something to do with romance—the main subject
Benedick, a young lord of Padua about whom Beatrice is they talk about. Beatrice and Benedick have known each other
particularly curious—and prickly. Although the messenger a long time—she reminds him "I know you of old"—and their
informs Benedick also performed well during battle, Beatrice squabbles indicate a backstory never fully revealed.
twists his words into insults about Benedick. Leonato tells the
messenger there is "a kind of merry war betwixt Signior Act 1, Scene 1 also establishes two of Much Ado About
Benedick" and Beatrice. Nothing's important themes:

Don Pedro and his men arrive. They are warmly welcomed by Honor is a constant topic of conversation in Much Ado
Leonato, who invites them to stay for at least a month. Beatrice About Nothing, mostly as it pertains to women. It first arises
and Benedick immediately start their war of words, which will when Don Pedro asks whether Hero is Leonato's daughter.
continue throughout the play. As Benedick insists he loves no Leonato jokes in reply, "Her mother hath many times told me
one and will never marry, Beatrice vows, "I had rather hear my so." This is meant to be funny, as anyone can see Hero
dog bark at a crow than a man swear he loves me." Benedick looks just like her father, but it also plays into the idea of the
gets in one more jibe and ends the conversation, irking unfaithfulness of women. Benedick upholds this idea,
Beatrice. believing any woman he married would certainly make him a
cuckold—a man whose wife cheats on him.
The group disperses, leaving Benedick and Claudio alone. Language plays an important role in the play. The most
Claudio tells Benedick he is suddenly consumed with love for beloved characters are verbose, while villainous Don John is
Hero, but Benedick can see the appeal of neither Hero nor the self-admittedly "not of many words." Beatrice and Benedick,
idea of marriage itself. Nevertheless Claudio is intent on in particular, have a habit of twisting each other's words to
making Hero his bride. Don Pedro returns and approves the make contradictory, quibbling points. The messenger says
match while Benedick rants about being "yoked" to another. Benedick is "A good soldier too, lady," to which Beatrice
This results in a lot of good-natured ribbing from Claudio and replies, "And a good soldier to a lady, but what is he to a
Don Pedro. Annoyed, Benedick leaves. Claudio repeats his lord?" The messenger defends Benedick while Beatrice
wish to marry Hero and beseeches the prince for help. Don insists on putting him down. Language is malleable and the
Pedro promises to disguise himself as Claudio and woo Hero in same words can be interpreted in a variety of ways. This

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 13

leads to confusion and distress in the course of the play.

Summary
Don John, Don Pedro's illegitimate half brother, is in a foul
Act 1, Scene 2 mood. Conrade thinks he should be happy, but Don John
doesn't feel he has much to be happy about. He and his
brother the prince have recently reconciled after a falling out,
Summary yet Don John refuses to play the grateful underling: "I had
rather be a canker in a hedge than a rose in his grace," he tells
Leonato's brother, Antonio, tells Leonato one of the servants Conrade.
overheard a conversation between Don Pedro and Claudio. In it
Don Pedro declared his love for Hero; he plans to woo her and Borachio enters and announces he has gossip to share. Don
ask for her hand in marriage. Leonato is skeptical of this news John wants to hear about it only if it will "serve for any model to
and insists "we will hold it as a dream till it appear itself." Still he build mischief on." It does for Borachio, who's hiding behind a
asks Antonio to tell Hero what's going on so she can have an tapestry where he overhears Don Pedro and Claudio's
answer prepared just in case the proposal comes. discussion about Hero. Unlike Leonato's servant, however,
Borachio understands the prince intends to woo Hero for
Claudio.
Analysis
Don John thinks this is great news because it "may prove food

It's a good thing Leonato is skeptical when he's told Don Pedro to my displeasure." He decides to use this information for

wants to marry Hero, because the eavesdropping servant has malevolent purposes and secures Conrad's and Borachio's

the story all wrong. The prince will not be wooing Hero for promises to help him.

himself, but for Claudio. This is the first of several times in the
play when perception doesn't match reality. Like the children's
game of telephone, what is overheard is rarely the whole truth.
Analysis
Leonato's wish for Hero to be prepared for the prince's Once again eavesdropping doesn't give the listener a full
proposal is also significant. Antonio isn't sent to speak to Hero picture of what's happening. Borachio is under the impression
so he can gauge her feelings about the prince; rather he's Don John will woo Hero in his own name, then give her to
ensuring she will say yes to his proposal. In Elizabethan Claudio as a gift. This misunderstanding provides Don John
England—when and where Shakespeare wrote the with an opportunity to cause trouble for Claudio, whom he
play—marriages, particularly for young women of the noble refers to as "that young start-up."
class, were often arranged by parents who could secure more
Some productions of Much Ado About Nothing portray Don
successful partnerships than their offspring. The choice of
John as a rival for Hero's affections, but nothing in the text
whom Hero will marry is not hers to make, and Leonato does
itself indicates romantic longing motivates him to cause
not seem overly particular about whom she will marry. He
trouble. The real root of his villainy is his intense hatred for
wants her to marry Don Pedro when he thinks that's an option,
Claudio. The reader never learns the exact reason for this
but he's equally as happy when it turns out Claudio is the one
hatred, but it probably has something to do with Claudio's
who wants her hand in marriage. Both men are a good match
friendship with Don Pedro. Don John swears Claudio "hath all
for Leonato's family.
the glory of my overthrow," meaning he has somehow taken
Don John's place in the prince's life.

Act 1, Scene 3 Shakespeare doesn't explicitly say what caused the quarrel
between Don John and Don Pedro, nor does he indicate the
impetus for their fragile reconciliation. It may have something
to do with Don John's birth status. In a stage direction of Act 1,
Scene 1 he is referred to as "John the Bastard." This isn't a

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 14

comment on his disposition—though it seems rather fitting—but wooed Hero for Claudio, and all is forgiven. Claudio and Hero
an indication of his parentage. A bastard is someone who is whisper sweet nothings to one another while Beatrice jokingly
born illegitimately, or outside of marriage. Don John and Don laments her lack of a husband. Don Pedro offers to find her
Pedro are technically half brothers, but because of Don John's one, then suggests himself. She rejects him kindly, saying,
illegitimate status, he is not a prince. He receives none of the "Your Grace is too costly to wear every day." She excuses
acclaim or adoration bestowed upon his brother. herself for being full of "all mirth and no matter" and soon
leaves the group.

Act 2, Scene 1 Don Pedro and Leonato discuss what a good match Beatrice
and Benedick would make, and the prince vows to unite them
before Claudio and Hero's wedding, which will take place in a
week. Don Pedro says, "If we can do this, Cupid is no longer an
Summary archer; his glory shall be ours, for we are the only love gods."

Beatrice, Leonato, Antonio, and Hero discuss their mutual

dislike of Don John, and Beatrice suggests the perfect man lies
Analysis
somewhere between Don John's speechlessness and
Benedick's verbosity. Antonio tells Hero he hopes she, unlike Don Pedro isn't taking a huge chance when he decides to bring
her cousin, "will be ruled by your father." Leonato reiterates his Beatrice and Benedick together. Their "merry war" indicates
hopes for Beatrice to wed, but she assures him such an their mutual attraction, and Beatrice even admits she and
occurrence will remain unlikely "till God make men of some Benedick had romantic feelings for one another in the past.
other metal than earth." The cause of the breakup isn't known. The only clue given is
Beatrice's feeling Benedick won her heart with lies, which she
The soldiers enter the room. They are all wearing masks
refers to as "false dice." Based on Benedick's vehement
befitting a masquerade ball. The men and women pair up: Don
feelings against marriage, he may have realized during the
Pedro goes off with Hero, Benedick dances with Margaret, and
course of their relationship he wasn't ready to be a husband.
Ursula dances with Antonio. Benedick ends up with Beatrice,
Beatrice's ever-present ire with Benedick stems from this
who pretends not to recognize him behind his mask. She
heartbreak, and her melancholy mood when discussing the
insists Benedick is "the Prince's jester, a very dull fool" while
situation with Don Pedro suggests she still loves Benedick.
the be-masked Benedick pretends not to know about whom
she is speaking. While the others dance, Don John and Even if Beatrice does love Benedick, that's not the reason why
Borachio put their plan into motion. They tell she turns down Don Pedro's proposal. Without watching actors
Claudio—pretending to believe he is Benedick—Don Pedro is on the stage, it's hard to tell whether the prince is being
wooing Hero for himself. Claudio is heartbroken. When serious or not. Based on the text alone, it appears Don Pedro's
Benedick fetches him for Hero and Don Pedro, Claudio insists proposal is real. Beatrice has been joking about her own lack
the prince has done him wrong. of romantic prospects in light of Claudio and Hero's
engagement, and the prince tries to solve her problem in the
Benedick explains this to Don Pedro, who then nonchalantly
manner of his father, who was good at "getting husbands." In
brings up the subject of what Beatrice told her "gentleman"
Don Pedro's mind there's no better husband than himself. He
dance partner about Benedick. Benedick rails against Beatrice,
thinks of himself as something of an expert at love ladies' man,
and when she and Claudio reappear, he pleads with Don Pedro
as evidenced by his confidence that he could woo Hero for
to send him on an assignment for "any service to the world's
Claudio, and he greatly admires Beatrice's wit and spirit. Her
end" just so he doesn't have to be near her. He leaves in a huff,
noble background makes her a suitable match for a prince. Yet
and Don Pedro tells Beatrice she has "lost the heart of Signior
the best evidence about the seriousness of Don Pedro's
Benedick." She replies she once had it and gave him her own,
question is Beatrice's reaction to it. She makes a flippant
which he won with "false dice."
response—"No, my lord, unless I might have another for
Changing the subject Beatrice presents Claudio, who is still working days"—then immediately apologizes for it. This
upset with Don Pedro. Don Pedro explains he has successfully apology is the only one she makes in the entire play, and it's

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 15

with good reason. She's terribly embarrassed to have refused

the prince's genuine proposal with mirthful words instead of
Analysis
the respect he deserves. If he had been joking, she wouldn't
Borachio's plan for ruining Claudio's marriage—calling
have apologized. Beatrice's sharp wit is a source of her pride
Margaret by Hero's name, having Margaret dress up in Hero's
throughout the play, but it doesn't always reveal itself at the
clothes—sounds a little strange to today's readers, but it would
right time.
have struck a chord with Elizabethan audiences. Margaret and
Pride proves to be the downfall of many characters in Much Borachio are of lower class than Hero and Don John. Borachio
Ado About Nothing, particularly Claudio. His ego, combined suggests a sex game wherein he and Margaret will pretend to
with his youth and gullibility, make him an easy target for Don be their social betters. It's a little weird, but it's not entirely
John's lie about Don Pedro wooing Hero for himself. In the unusual since Elizabethan England put so much emphasis on
grand scheme of things, this cruel trick doesn't cause much social status.
trouble for any of the characters, and the resulting fallout is
It's also not unusual Borachio's plan hinges on convincing
short lived. It does, however, establish Claudio as someone
Claudio his intended bride, Hero, isn't virtuous. Honor was
who is willing to believe the worst about those he loves most,
immensely important in Elizabethan England, and when people
such as Don Pedro and Hero, even when it comes from a most
talked about honor, they were usually talking about a woman's
unreliable source. Establishing his short temper and his
virtue, or chastity. Women were expected to remain virgins
tendency to accept everything he hears as fact makes his
until marriage. The "ideal" woman, examples of which were
actions later in the play entirely believable.
more likely to be found in conduct books of the era than in
actual society, was also expected to be modest, quiet, and
subservient. These are all apt descriptions of Hero, who serves
Act 2, Scene 2 as the stereotypical ideal of femininity in Much Ado About
Nothing. Positioning her as unchaste and a cunning seductress
would destroy her reputation and marriageability. Reputation
Summary was an important part of a person's honor, and Borachio's
attacks the insecurities felt by several men in the play. Rumors
Don John asks Borachio to come up with another idea on how about Hero's illicit affairs wouldn't harm only her, but Claudio
to "cross this marriage" of Claudio and Hero. Borachio lays out as well. Doubts about Hero's chastity would reflect poorly on
a plan to make Claudio and Don Pedro think Hero has a secret Don Pedro, since he made the match, and upon Leonato,
lover. Borachio is romantically involved with Margaret, Hero's Hero's father. Don John wants to make as much mischief as
gentlewoman (really a glorified maid). He instructs Don John to possible, and ruining three men's reputation is a good way to
tell Claudio and Don Pedro of Hero's infidelity. They will do it.
naturally not believe him, so he will offer "proof" in the form of
two lovers canoodling in Hero's window on the night before the Significantly, barely a thought is given to the woman in
wedding. Borachio will convince Margaret to have a liaison with question. Borachio only says the plan will "undo Hero," which
him in Hero's bedroom during which he will call her "Hero" and makes light of the consequences she will suffer once news of
she will call him "Claudio." From a distance Claudio and Don her false infidelity spreads. No one will want to marry her, and
Pedro will be unable to tell the woman with Borachio is not her father won't want anything to do with her. If those closest
Hero. Claudio will be appalled the woman he intended to marry to her don't believe in her purity, she will be completely ruined
is not as virtuous as he believed, and the wedding will be with no home, family, or means of income; yet neither Don John
canceled. nor Borachio give this a second thought. To them Hero is
simply a means to an end—destroying Claudio, Don Pedro, and
Don John approves the plan and tells Borachio he will find out Leonato. She is, after all, just a woman.
the day on which the wedding will occur.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 16

Act 2, Scene 3 Analysis

Trickery is an ongoing theme in Much Ado About Nothing.
Sometimes it's used for nefarious purposes, such as when Don
Summary John fools Claudio into thinking Don Pedro is wooing Hero for
himself. Other times, such as when Don Pedro schemes to
Benedick is in the garden, talking to himself about Claudio's
make Benedick and Beatrice fall in love with each other, it's for
sudden change from soldier into lover. He briefly wonders if
the betterment of the characters' lives. Lies and deceit by
this will ever happen to him, then immediately dismisses the
themselves are neither good nor bad—it all depends on who is
idea. He will not fall in love until "all graces be in one woman."
doing the deceiving and their intentions.
Claudio, Don Pedro, Leonato, and Balthasar come into the
Act 2, Scene 3 brings up the question as to why people believe
garden. Benedick hides from their view, but they're aware of
what they believe. Benedick was a stalwart opponent of
his presence. Balthasar sings a song about how women must
marriage prior to overhearing the conversation in the garden,
be patient with faithless men, then departs. Claudio, Don
and he dismissed Don Pedro's and Claudio's face-to-face
Pedro, and Leonato lay the trap for Benedick to fall in love with
urgings to give love a chance. Yet when he hears the same
Beatrice. Leonato begins by telling Claudio and Don Pedro how
thing through eavesdropping, he's ready to abandon
Beatrice is secretly in love with Benedick. Benedick can't
bachelorhood and take Beatrice as his wife. Throughout Much
believe what he's hearing, but he assumes it must be the truth
Ado About Nothing, hearsay is more convincing than logic and
because "the white-bearded fellow speaks it. Knavery cannot,
reason. In this case it's because the hearsay is so flattering.
sure, hide himself in such reverence." The men continue to spin
Don Pedro, Claudio, and Leonato appeal to Benedick's vanity
a story about how Beatrice will never tell Benedick about her
as they weave the story of a lovesick Beatrice. Hearing a
feelings as she has "so oft encountered him with scorn," yet
woman would kill herself out of love for him is enormously
she cannot help getting out of bed 20 times a night to pour her
flattering, and it seemingly erases the months, perhaps years,
heart out to him on paper. Leonato says Hero fears Beatrice
of ire between the two. Benedick, who has borne the brunt of
will "do a desperate outrage to herself"—commit
Beatrice's disdain time and time again, ignores all physical
suicide—because she loves Benedick so much. Claudio
evidence to the contrary and suddenly believes she loves him.
confirms this. Don Pedro suggests they tell Benedick so as to
relieve Beatrice's suffering, but they all agree he would "make The change in Benedick is swift. He begins Act 2, Scene 3 by
but a sport of it and torment the poor lady worse." As they puzzling over the sudden change in Claudio's character. He
extol her virtues, Don Pedro says, "I wish [Benedick] would isn't quite sure how a man so attuned to the life of the soldier
modestly examine himself to see how much he is unworthy so could suddenly become a lover at war's end. Yet he does the
good a lady." very same thing himself at the end of the scene because he
doesn't dislike the idea of marriage, but rather the possibility of
As the three men go inside to dinner, Benedick comes out of
getting hurt. Benedick's jokes about wearing the cuckold's
hiding. "This can be no trick," he assures himself as he reviews
horns underline his fears of his love going unrequited. Knowing
everything he overheard. He vows to return Beatrice's love for
(however falsely) Beatrice does love him gives him permission
she embodies all the graces he desires: beauty, virtue, and
to accept his feelings for her. He has several rationalizations
intelligence. He easily rationalizes his change of heart about
for changing his mind, but the one closest to the heart of
marriage—"When I said I would die a bachelor, I did not think I
things is his belief he wouldn't live long enough to find
should live till I were married"—as Beatrice storms her way
someone he was willing to marry.
toward him. She announces that "against [her] will," she has
been sent to fetch him for dinner. Benedick interprets her terse
message as a declaration of love and goes into the house.
Act 3, Scene 1

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 17

Hero and Ursula's conversation, while made in jest, gives

Summary Beatrice an unflattering glimpse of how people see her. She is
startled to discover she stands "condemned for pride and
Hero initiates her part of the plan to make Beatrice and
scorn so much." She doesn't think of herself as being prideful
Benedick fall in love. She sends Margaret to tell Beatrice that
and scornful of others, and when it's brought to her attention,
Ursula and Hero are discussing her in the orchard, then
she vows to part with her "contempt" and "maiden pride." She
instructs Ursula as to what they will say. Ursula will heap praise
thinks a woman in love should have Hero's subservient
upon Benedick while Hero will speak of how Benedick is "sick
personality and wants to remake herself in that mold.
in love with Beatrice."
Beatrice's own misconceptions about what it means to be in
Beatrice arrives at the orchard and hides. She listens as Hero love contradict everything Benedick likes about her in the first
tells Ursula how Claudio and Don Pedro told her Benedick place.
loves Beatrice. They think Beatrice should know, but Hero
doesn't. She thinks Beatrice will only make fun of him, as
"nature never framed a woman's heart of prouder stuff than Act 3, Scene 2
that of Beatrice." Hero further says her cousin has patience for
no man, and turns them all "the wrong side out." Hero tells
Ursula she intends to dissuade Benedick of his love by telling Summary
him bad—and untrue—things about Beatrice. Ursula says that
isn't fair; Beatrice is far too intelligent to pass up a man as Don Pedro plans to leave Messina after the wedding. Claudio
wonderful as Benedick. They remark on his good name and offers to accompany him to Aragon, but Don Pedro insists
reputation, then move out of earshot to congratulate Claudio stay with his new bride. He will travel with Benedick
themselves on a job well done before leaving the orchard. instead. Benedick seems out of sorts. Don Pedro wonders if
he's sad, while Claudio crows Benedick must be in love. He
Beatrice emerges from her hiding place, slightly shocked at the
says he has a toothache. Claudio and Don Pedro tease
negative things her cousin said of her. She vows to requite
Benedick about being in love, noting the disappearance of his
Benedick's love and let him tame her "wild heart to [his] loving
beard and signs he washed his face. Benedick soon tires of
hand." She ends her brief speech by saying she'll marry
their tomfoolery and asks Leonato for a private word. Don
Benedick because others—Hero and Ursula—believe he
Pedro and Claudio are sure that Benedick is asking Leonato
deserves her.
for permission to marry Beatrice.

Don John enters. After assuring Claudio he holds him in high

Analysis regard, he tells him and Don Pedro that Hero has been
"disloyal" or worse. Don John asks them to join him outside her
The second part of Don Pedro's plan proceeds much like the bedroom window at midnight where they will "see her chamber
first, but at a more rapid rate. This is partly because the window entered, even the night before her wedding day." If
audience has already seen how the tricksters disparage the Claudio still loves Hero the next day, he can marry her, though
character of the eavesdropper and extol the virtues of the it would do a disservice to his honor.
supposedly lovesick. It's also partly because Beatrice is a
woman eavesdropping on a conversation between two women. Don Pedro and Claudio aren't sure they believe this accusation
For the most part the jokes and insults in Much Ado About about Hero, but they agree to go with Don John to confirm it.
Nothing are the province of men, and Claudio, Don Pedro, and Claudio vows to shame her at the wedding ceremony the next
Leonato make plenty at Benedick's expense. Beatrice is day if any of this proves to be true; Don Pedro seconds the
usually the jokester of the group of female characters, and in idea. They wait until midnight.
this scene she is relegated to the position of listener while
Hero and Ursula paint a sympathetic portrayal of lovesick
Benedick. This is a more serious scene than the previous,
which was highly focused on humor.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 18

Analysis Summary
Like Beatrice in Act 3, Scene 1 Benedick also goes through a The setting shifts from inside Leonato's property to a deserted
transformation upon falling in love. The changes are both street in the middle of the night. Four members of the
emotional and physical. He has shaved off his beard—he has neighborhood watch are on duty. Dogberry, the local
most likely heard Beatrice doesn't like beards—and Claudio constable, and his second-in-command, Verges, arrive to give
and Don Pedro tease him about having washed his face for the watchmen—two are named Hugh Oatcake and George
once. His demeanor has changed as well. Instead of entering a Seacoal—their instructions. These are more than a little
battle of wits and wills with his friends as he's been known to confusing, as Dogberry is forever mixing up words. He tells the
do, he endures their playful banter with an air of suffering. This watch to "comprehend all vagrom men" (meaning "apprehend
could be because of the toothache he claims to have. In all vagrant men") and make sure the local drunks get home to
Elizabethan times toothaches were often attributed to bed. Dogberry suggests if they encounter a thief, it's better to
diseases of the head or brain—one of which was love. This new just "let him show himself what he is and steal out of your
Benedick is much more serious than when he was so against company." Before he leaves, Dogberry reminds the men to
love just a day ago. keep a close eye on Leonato's house since the wedding is the
next day.
Though Claudio and Don Pedro find Benedick's lovelorn
persona amusing, they immediately become sober upon Dogberry and Verges leave, the members of the watch remain
hearing Don John's accusations about Hero. Neither of them to hide in the shadows, and Conrad and Borachio enter.
fully believe Don John, but nor do they attempt to verify this Borachio begins to tell Conrade how he earned a thousand
claim with Hero herself. One of the recurring ideas in Much ducats from Don John, but their conversation veers off in a
Ado About Nothing is that women are untrustworthy, as tangent about fashion. Borachio finally gets back on track and
exemplified by Benedick's fears of becoming a cuckold and tells Conrade how he wooed Margaret in Hero's bedroom while
Claudio's easy persuasion to thinking Hero is unchaste. In Don John, Claudio, and Don Pedro watched from the orchard.
reality it's the men's own insecurities that are the cause of all He says Claudio and Don Pedro thought Margaret was Hero,
of the problems. Don John is insecure about his position with but Don John knew the truth. Borachio overheard Claudio say
his brother, and Claudio is insecure in his social standing. Even he would shame Hero in the church the next morning "and
Don Pedro, a prince, is insecure about how others perceive send her home again without a husband."
him.
The watchmen jump out of the shadows and arrest Conrade
Though they are not technically villains, Don Pedro and Claudio and Borachio. Someone sends for Dogberry, who tells Don
prove themselves to be some of the ugliest characters in the John's henchmen, "Masters, never speak, we charge you, let us
play. They respond to Hero's alleged affair not by calling off obey [he means "order"] you to go with us." Conrade and
the wedding, but by making plans to publicly shame her during Borachio are taken to jail.
it. Claudio, so blinded by rage at being dishonored, never
pauses to question whether Hero would do something so
terrible. Though Don John's lie slanders the woman Claudio Analysis
loves, Claudio accepts it as fact because somebody else says
it is. His romantic life relies more on the input of others than it Like many of the characters in the play, Dogberry's use of
does on his own analysis. language provides an insight into his character. He thinks a lot
of himself and his position of constable, and he tries to make
his speech match the importance of his position. He uses
Act 3, Scene 3 multisyllabic words to make himself sound smarter, but he has
no idea what they mean. The resulting
malapropisms—humorous misuses of words in place of similar-
sounding words—make him seem like a complete idiot while
simultaneously endearing him to the audience. If Beatrice's and

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 19

Benedick's war of words is the highbrow comedy of Much Ado ashamed of saying such a thing, but Margaret says it's
About Nothing, Dogberry's verbal buffoonery is the slapstick. perfectly fine for her to say things about Hero having sex with
her own husband.
Dogberry's misuse of language also highlights his ineptitude
for law enforcement. His focus is not on preventing crime, per Beatrice enters. She has a cold and doesn't feel well. Hero
se, but on keeping the peace. Those are two very different shows off her new perfumed gloves, which were a gift from
things. He insists the watchmen remain quiet and agrees it's a Claudio. Beatrice can't smell anything as she is "stuffed," a
good idea if they just fall asleep. If the drunks don't want to go remark Margaret turns into a joke about being pregnant while
home, it's best to wait until they're sober. In his own wacky still a maiden. Annoyed, Beatrice asks Margaret how long she's
way, Dogberry's method of policing supports one of the been such a wit, and Margaret replies, "Ever since you left it."
overarching ideas of the play: protect your own reputation at Margaret suggests Beatrice take some carduus benedictus for
all costs. To him it is far worse for a man's reputation to be her ills, and when Beatrice accuses her of insinuating
tarnished by standing in close proximity to a thief than allowing something, Margaret swears she isn't. She says she knows
the thief to steal all he wants. Dogberry is a terrible policeman, Beatrice will never fall in love. Unprompted she continues to
but he's quite in tune with the values of Elizabethan England. say that Benedick, on the other hand, is showing signs of
changing his mind about love.
Conrade and Borachio are also wiser than they appear. Their
short digression about fashion is usually cut from stage Ursula enters to say all of the men are waiting to take the
productions of Much Ado About Nothing as it doesn't further ladies to the church. Margaret and Beatrice help Hero finish
the plot or provide any comedic relief. It's important, though, dressing.
because it comments on how the nobility use clothing to mold
their image. All of the "hot bloods," or noblemen who sport
fancy attire, dress not only for protection from the elements, Analysis
but to impart something about their personality. Perhaps they
dress "like Pharaoh's soldiers" to show their bravery, or "like The women of Much Ado About Nothing talk about sex just as
god Bel's priests," who dressed in expensive finery, to show much as the men, but only if the men are out of earshot.
their wealth. Some men even wear enormous codpieces to Margaret, who is of a lower class than Hero and Beatrice, has
boast about the size of their literal manhood. Conrade thinks no qualms about telling dirty jokes and insinuating Hero will
dressing with more clothing than needed for comfort is soon be underneath her husband both in the eyes of the law
unnecessary, and he accuses Borachio of falling prey to the and in the bedroom. The virtuous, ladylike Hero is scandalized
trappings of nobility. He's essentially saying Borachio is by this kind of talk, but it doesn't bother Beatrice. She makes
starting to think himself more important than he really is. The dirty jokes of her own throughout the play, which also places
same thing could be said of Claudio and Don Pedro, who dress her in contrast with Hero.
and speak like nobles but often act below their class.
Attitudes about sex were surprisingly relaxed during the
Elizabethan era, which is why Margaret and Beatrice both feel

Act 3, Scene 4 comfortable joking about it. Though the Church of England and
the monarchy decried any hint of sexual activity before
marriage, the general population felt it was acceptable for
people intending to marry to engage in intercourse after
Summary agreeing to wed but before partaking in the religious
ceremony. This is why Margaret says she can joke about
It's the day of the wedding. Hero sends Ursula to wake Hero's wedding night—she was talking about Hero having sex
Beatrice while Margaret helps her dress. They argue over what with her husband, which is acceptable.
Hero should wear. Hero says her heart is "exceeding heavy,"
meaning she feels nervous about her upcoming nuptials. The "heaviness" of Hero's heart foreshadows the impending
Margaret makes a crass joke about Hero's heart being "heavier catastrophe she faces at the church, while Beatrice's illness is
soon by the weight of a man." Hero thinks Margaret should be symbolic of her decision to love. She and Benedick both find

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 20

themselves in pain after deciding to love the other, which is

representative of the vulnerability of allowing oneself to be Act 4, Scene 1
open to love.

Summary
Act 3, Scene 5
All of the nobles are gathered at the church. The ceremony
gets off to a rocky start when Claudio denies he has come to
marry Hero. When Friar Francis asks whether anyone knows of
Summary a reason why they shouldn't be wed, Claudio pointedly asks
Hero if she has anything she wants to say. A tense
Dogberry and Verges visit Leonato. He is in the midst of
conversation follows, and Claudio finally explodes, accusing
preparations for the wedding, and he doesn't have time for a
Hero of knowing "the heat of a luxurious bed." Leonato says if
long conversation. Dogberry beats around the bush as to the
Claudio is the man who has taken Hero's virginity, it is only
reason of their visit, and Leonato informs them they are
because she thought of him as her husband. Claudio insists it
tedious. Dogberry takes this as the highest compliment.
wasn't he, as he has behaved no more sexually toward Hero
Verges finally tells Leonato the evening watchmen arrested than would a brother to a sister. Leonato looks to Don Pedro
two men overnight. Dogberry invites Leonato to come to their for help, but Don Pedro supports Claudio, saying, "I stand
questioning, but Leonato insists he doesn't have time. He tells dishonored that have gone about/To link my dear friend to a
them to examine the criminals and then bring him a report of common stale."
their findings. He leaves for the wedding, and Dogberry and
Claudio demands to know to whom Hero was speaking at her
Verges go to the jail.
window the night before. She swears she was with no one. Don
Pedro tells Leonato he and Don John saw and heard a man at

Analysis Hero's window talking about "the vile encounters they have
had/A thousand times in secret." Claudio denounces Hero
once and for all, prompting Leonato to pronounce "Hath no
Dogberry is so busy trying to impress Leonato he forgets to
man's dagger here a point for me?" Hero faints. Beatrice runs
tell the governor the real news: Hero is going to be falsely
to her aid as Don John, Claudio, and Don Pedro exit. Benedick
slandered. Leonato would have been saved a world of trouble
stays and asks Beatrice if she had been with Hero the night
had he not been so impatient with the dim-witted Dogberry.
before. It turns out the evening in question was the only time in
Yet Leonato's good breeding keeps him from losing his temper
the past 12 months the two cousins did not share a bed.
when confronted with Dogberry's idiocy. He is only mildly
Leonato, who has already declared "death is the fairest cover
surprised when Dogberry says, "If I were as tedious as a king, I
for her shame," takes this as confirmation of Hero's misdeeds.
could find in my heart to bestow it all of your Worship," and he
seems to take no offence when Dogberry insults the
Friar Francis finally steps in. He is sure Hero is innocent and
intelligence of those of an advanced age.
"the princes" must have misunderstood the situation. Benedick
says two of the men in question "have the very bent of honor,"
For all of Dogberry's and Verge's idiocy, they are the ones who
but Don John is not to be trusted. Friar Francis suggests they
uncover the plot to besmirch Hero's good name. Claudio and
hide Hero and pretend she has died from Claudio's slanderous
Don Pedro are far more intelligent than the lowly law
words. Claudio's rage will turn into remorse, and Hero's
enforcement officials, but intelligence doesn't necessarily
memory will become more precious to him than when they
equate with good judgment. They put their faith in the wrong
were first betrothed. If it turns out Hero is lying, she can live the
person—Don John. In Much Ado About Nothing, the wise men
rest of her life in seclusion. Leonato and Benedick agree to the
prove themselves to be fools and the fools are the wisest of all.
plan.

Hero, Leonato, and Friar Francis exit, leaving Benedict and

Beatrice alone. Benedick tells a weeping Beatrice he thinks

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 21

Hero has been wronged, and Beatrice wishes a man loved her wrongdoing, then switches back to prose when Benedick
enough to avenge Hero's honor. Benedick says he's such a and Beatrice are left alone in the church. This happens
man, and they confess their love to one another. He tells throughout the play, and it's done for a specific reason.
Beatrice to name something, anything he can do for her. She Prose is used for conversations veering toward the
replies "Kill Claudio." Benedick laughs, intending to do no such lighthearted, while verse is used for serious or formal
thing to his friend, and Beatrice questions Benedick's love. She situations and occasions. Claudio and Hero mostly speak in
rants, stating she wishes she were a man, for if she were she verse, while Beatrice and Benedick squabble in prose. They
would "eat [Claudio's] heart in the marketplace." Instead, all speak in prose even as they declare their love for one
she can do is die of grief. This is too much for Benedick. He another. Beatrice, in particular, clings to her usual verbal
reaffirms his love for Beatrice and vows to challenge Claudio. tricks as she hesitantly tells Benedick how she feels. "It
were as possible for me to say I loved nothing so well as
you, but believe me not, and yet I lie not," she hedges, fearful
Analysis of Benedick's reaction. He, however, isn't afraid and tells her
over and over, in no uncertain terms, he loves her.
Claudio's public humiliation of Hero is the climax of Much Ado
About Nothing, and the accompanying scene addresses Act 4, Scene 1 is a pivotal moment for Benedick. Instead of
several of the themes present throughout the play: leaving the church with Don Pedro and Claudio, he stays
behind with Beatrice and her family. This small act symbolizes
Honor: Though Hero is questioned about her fidelity, the his transformation from soldier into lover. It also illustrates the
conflict at hand is not so much about her as it is about how differences between his relationship with Beatrice and
her alleged actions reflect upon the men connected to her. Claudio's relationship with Hero. Though Beatrice and
Claudio and Leonato are furious with her not only for Benedick have spent years squabbling, each knows the other
supposedly losing her virginity, but how the loss of said is a good and honest person. The trust between them is
virginity makes them look. This mindset was the norm in implicit. Benedick takes Beatrice's word Claudio has slandered
Elizabethan England. A woman's father was thought to be Hero, which is enough to make him discount his friendship with
the protector of her virginity, and if it was lost, he was the young man. Claudio, on the other hand, has absolutely no
considered to be the party responsible, sometimes even faith or trust in the woman he was supposed to marry. Their
literally. Once the woman is married, her "faults," including relationship is based solely on physical attraction and
previous sexual encounters, become the responsibility of reputation. Beatrice and Benedick look past each other's
her husband. Learning about his wife's lack of virtue after prickly exteriors to see the real person inside.
the wedding ceremony could be potentially ruinous for a
new husband.
Gender Politics: Hero is essentially put on trial in front of Act 4, Scene 2
her friends and family at the church. Claudio brings forth the
accusation, and Don Pedro provides the evidence. Hero is
hardly given a chance to defend herself or provide any
evidence of her own. When she does protest, even her own
Summary
father disregards what she has to say. He believes the word
Dogberry, Verges, the men of the watch, Conrade, and
of three men—one of whom, Don John, he doesn't even
Borachio are gathered in the courthouse or another official
like—over the word of his own daughter. Even Hero's status
building. The sexton, who oversees church property, is also in
as a blood relative doesn't endear her to Leonato, who is
attendance. He is serving as the official note taker during the
more than ready to see his daughter die than endure more
examination of the criminals. It becomes apparent Dogberry
shame. Beatrice, too, feels constrained by her gender. She
has no idea what he's doing, so the sexton instructs him to
wishes she were a man so she could kill Claudio herself. As
have the watch give their account of the previous night's
a woman her only chance of relief from such sorrow is
events.
death.
Language: The marriage ceremony begins in prose, then The first watchman says they overheard Borachio say Don
switches to verse as Claudio begins to accuse Hero of

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 22

John paid him for "accusing the Lady Hero wrongfully." He his guilt. Shakespeare doesn't spend a lot of time developing
goes on to describe what Borachio told Conrade, including the Don John's character because the villain himself isn't
part about Claudio intending to shame Hero at the wedding. particularly important to the progression of the plot. Claudio's
The sexton finds this extremely interesting since Don John fled doubts about his impending nuptials are far more important to
Messina that very morning, and Claudio did indeed shame the story's plot and themes than Don John's motivations for
Hero, which resulted in her death. He instructs Dogberry to ruining the wedding.
bring Borachio and Conrade to Leonato's home. The sexton
leaves the examination to present the evidence to Leonato
before Dogberry arrives. Act 5, Scene 1
Dogberry tries to physically remove Conrade from the room.
Conrade tries to shake him off, yelling, "Away! You are an ass,
you are an ass!" Dogberry is deeply offended and wishes the
Summary
sexton were still around so he could record what Conrade said
Leonato is terribly upset about Hero's slander, and Antonio
about him. He insists everyone remember he is an ass.
suggests Leonato, "make those that do offend you suffer too."
Leonato intends to do so and beseeches Claudio and Don

Analysis Pedro to stop for a moment as they pass by. He informs

Claudio of Hero's death and states it's all Claudio's fault.

Shakespeare is known for injecting his tragedies with comedic Claudio isn't even fazed when Antonio stands up for his

relief at crucial moments. Though Much Ado About Nothing is brother and challenges Claudio to a duel. Don Pedro finally

technically a comedy, the role of Dogberry is meant to lighten steps in and says he's sorry to hear Hero died, but "she was

the darkness creeping in around the edges of the play. His charged with nothing but what was true and very full of proof."

appearance after the emotionally draining scene in the church Angry that they're being ignored, Leonato and Antonio leave.

is no accident. A few verbal blunders, an incompetent

Benedick arrives much to the delight of Claudio and Don
examination of the prisoners, and an affirmation he is indeed
Pedro, who say they could use some cheering up. Don Pedro
an ass all lift the mood of the fourth act. This assures the
quickly realizes something is bothering Benedick, but Claudio
audience that most of the characters will get their happy
carries on teasing him in their usual manner. Benedick calls
ending after all.
Claudio a villain and challenges him to a duel, which Claudio

Though his repetition of "I am an ass" is funny, Dogberry is truly doesn't take seriously. Don Pedro changes the subject to

hurt by Conrade's condescending attitude. Conrade, who Beatrice, which sets off another round of jokes at Benedick's

introduces himself as a "gentleman," clearly looks down upon expense. Benedick barely listens to them. He tells Don Pedro

the verbally incompetent constable. Dogberry is so affronted he can no longer keep his company, says Don John has left

he defends himself with boasts about his intelligence, his town, and reiterates his challenge to "Lord Lackbeard" before

occupation, his home ownership, and even his physical person. leaving. Don Pedro and Claudio finally realize that Benedick is

This very human reaction to Conrade's insults, combined with serious about his challenge to Claudio and in his love with

his assertion he isn't an idiot, is what makes Dogberry such a Beatrice.

great comedic character.

Dogberry, Verges, and the watchmen enter with their

Don John, who proclaims himself to be a "plain-dealing villain," prisoners. Don Pedro asks why Conrade and Borachio are

turns out to be a pretty lackluster bad guy. He manages to ruin under arrest. Dogberry replies with a convoluted list of

Claudio's life for a short amount of time, but then what? Don charges. Since Dogberry is "too cunning to be understood,"

John clearly knows the truth will come out in the end, which is Don Pedro asks Borachio and Conrade to explain themselves.

why he hightails it out of Messina immediately after the Borachio confesses how he and Don John conspired to

wedding. Perhaps he knew Borachio would squeal, or maybe slander Hero. Don Pedro and Claudio are horrified. Dogberry

he figured someone would try to defend Hero's honor. In either butts in to remind the men "to specify, when time and place

case his decision to leave is a tacit—and blatant—admission of shall serve" that he is an ass.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 23

Leonato comes storming out of the house followed by his that class is not an indicator of a person's intelligence, morals,
brother and the sexton, who has just told them the results of or sense of justice. In this instance the members of the lower
the interrogation. Leonato wants to see the villain, but isn't class are the heroes while those in the upper class do more
satisfied when only Borachio presents himself, for Don Pedro, harm than good.
Claudio, and Don John are also responsible. Claudio begs for a
means of repentance, and Don Pedro says he would "bend Though trickery is at the root of the major conflict in Much Ado

under any heavy weight" Leonato will ask of him. Leonato About Nothing, it's also the main means of resolution. When

commands them to tell everyone in Messina of Hero's Claudio breaks down after learning of Hero's innocence,

innocence, and then asks Claudio to marry Antonio's daughter, Leonato decides it would be best to add another layer of

who is "almost the copy of my child that's dead" (and doesn't deception to the already elaborate ruse of Hero's death. For

actually exist). Claudio gratefully accepts the offer. Leonato it's not enough Claudio accepts Hero's innocence;
Leonato wants all of Messina to know she was wrongfully
Leonato pays Dogberry, who has reminded him once again he shamed. He also wants Claudio to suffer a little more for all of
is an ass, and takes custody of Borachio so they can visit the hurt he has caused Leonato's family. As punishments go
Margaret. Borachio assures Leonato that Margaret was an it's not very severe. Claudio still ends up marrying Hero, but for
unwilling participant in the plot to slander Hero and "always a few hours he thinks he's going to have to marry someone
hath been just and virtuous in anything that I do know by her." he's never met. This suffices for Leonato given he wants to be
Claudio and Don Pedro vow to be present for the next assured of the depth and breadth of Claudio's regret before
morning's wedding after spending the night mourning Hero. allowing him to marry Hero. This also gives Claudio the chance
to redeem himself to the audience, thus allowing him to reclaim
his status as a sympathetic character while distancing himself
Analysis from the villainy of Don John and Borachio.

Claudio's lack of remorse over Hero's death is a stark contrast

to the devotion Benedick shows Beatrice in Act 4, Scene 1. Act 5, Scene 2
Claudio was engaged to be married to Hero but left her
humiliated at the first sign of trouble. The friar tries to appeal
to Claudio's compassionate side by having Hero pretend to be
dead, but Claudio feels no remorse until Borachio explains
Summary
exactly how he and Don John tricked everyone. Claudio's
Benedick is looking for Beatrice but finds Margaret instead.
loyalty only extends as far as himself. Benedick, on the other
They jest back and forth and Margaret makes a dirty joke.
hand, has been verbally tormented by Beatrice for ages yet still
Benedick praises her wit, saying it "is as quick as the
supports her in her time of need. Benedick loves Beatrice
greyhound's mouth." She retorts Benedick's wit is "as blunt as
despite her faults; Claudio loves Hero because he thinks she
the fencer's foils, which hit but hurt not." Benedick says his is a
doesn't have any. Leonato is right when he says Borachio isn't
manly wit, which is not meant to hurt women. Margaret makes
the only villain. Though the plot to slander Hero was Borachio's
another dirty joke and fetches Beatrice while Benedick tries to
idea, Claudio is the one who publicly shamed her in front of the
find appropriate rhymes for a sonnet he's writing for her.
whole town. He is perhaps more responsible than anyone for
the damage done to her reputation. Beatrice enters. She jokingly tries to leave as soon as she
arrives, then asks what happened between Benedick and
Borachio is also correct when he tells Claudio and Don Pedro,
Claudio. Benedick says only "foul words" passed between
"What your wisdoms could not discover, these shallow fools
them. He tries to kiss Beatrice, but she wittily refuses him.
have brought to light." The "shallow fools" in question are
Benedick capitulates and tells her the details before asking,
Dogberry, Verges, and the watch. They didn't have to do much
"But for which of my bad parts didst thou first fall in love with
to uncover the plot to slander Hero—it was mainly a case of
me?" She says she fell for all of them together, then asks the
being in the right place at the right time—but they did more to
same of him. They banter back and forth and Benedick
clear her name than the reigning head of state and the young
pronounces them both "too wise to woo peaceably." Their
nobleman betrothed to her. Shakespeare is making the point

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Act Summaries 24

moods darken momentarily as they talk about Hero, then

lighten again as Ursula brings news Hero has been proven Act 5, Scene 3
innocent.

Summary
Analysis
Claudio and Don Pedro go to Leonato's family tomb in the
Shakespeare loves a dirty joke, and so do the characters of church courtyard, where they are greeting by lords holding
Much Ado About Nothing. There are three in this short scene candles and a few singers. Claudio reads aloud the epitaph
alone. Benedick says he'll write a sonnet about Margaret's declaring Hero's innocence, then vows to return to her tomb
beauty, which no other man "shall come over," or surpass. every year. Don Pedro dismisses the lords and the singers as
Margaret twists his words into "to have no man come over the sun rises, and he and Claudio return to Leonato's home to
me?" joking no man will lie on top of her during intercourse. prepare for the upcoming nuptials.
Benedick concedes to Margaret's superior wit with "I give thee
the bucklers." A buckler is a small shield with a detachable
spike in the center. "Buckler" is also slang for the vagina, and Analysis
Margaret chooses to use that interpretation to make a pun
about swords, which naturally represent the penis. Benedick Some productions of Much Ado About Nothing before the early
retorts "they are dangerous weapons for maids." This back and 20th century omitted this scene completely, most likely to cut
forth between Margaret and Benedick shows how Margaret down on time and scenery. In other versions of the play,
isn't nearly as proper of a lady as Hero, which doesn't bother Claudio's reading of the epitaph is assigned to one of the lords.
Benedick. He enjoys a good sparring partner no matter their Both of these staging decisions diminish the impact of
gender. He's even lewd with Beatrice, telling her "I will live in Claudio's remorse. This short scene is important in establishing
thy heart, die in thy lap, and be buried in thy eyes." It sounds Claudio's guilt before he is forgiven.
awfully romantic, but "dying" is a euphemism for having an
Claudio does feel bad, but he's also looking toward the future.
orgasm.
He prays to Hymen, the Roman god of marriage, to make his
Many Elizabethan women would be shocked by Benedick's next marriage better than "this for whom we rendered up this
language. Not Beatrice. She is more hesitant to speak truthfully woe." He acknowledges he and Don Pedro were the source of
of her love than to dish out dirty jokes of her own. Beatrice and "woe" for Hero, and he's intent on making his next marriage
Benedick's relationship is on uneven ground at this point in the work even though he has no idea who the bride is. He truly
play. Benedick has wholly committed himself to loving Beatrice, does regret his actions, but it's hard to say if he's learned
even breaking off his friendships with Claudio and Don Pedro anything from them.
as means of showing his devotion. Beatrice, on the other hand,
still hides her feelings behind jokes and gentle teasing. She
loves him, but she's afraid to trust him with her heart. Act 5, Scene 4
Beatrice is more comfortable in the familiar pattern of joking
banter. Benedick, too, has trouble expressing himself in the
traditional format of sonnets and love songs, and he decides to
Summary
"woo peaceably" is a lost cause. His realizes since his and
Leonato's family, their servants, the friar, and Benedick all
Beatrice's courtship is far from the norm of traditional
gather before the wedding ceremony. Leonato declares Don
Elizabethan standards, their marriage will be different, too. He
Pedro and Claudio to be just as innocent as Hero, but says
and Beatrice will be equals in almost every sense of the word,
"Margaret was in some fault for this," though Borachio insists
which is a far cry from the male-dominated relationship of
she knew nothing about it. He instructs the women to put on
Claudio and Hero.
masks as they go to another room to make final preparations.
With Beatrice out of earshot, Benedick asks Leonato for her

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Quotes 25

hand in marriage. Leonato confesses to the scheme, but him. That's why he tells Claudio to take his new bride's hand
Benedick doesn't seem to understand what he is saying. "and swear to marry her." It's a literal handshake contract to
ensure Claudio will go through with the ceremony no matter
Don Pedro and Claudio enter. Claudio promises to marry what. Leonato has every right to expect this of the man who
whomever Leonato presents to him, even "were she an humiliated his daughter and who still doesn't seem very
Ethiope." The women come into the room wearing their masks, remorseful. When the veil is removed from Hero's face, all he
and Claudio asks to see his bride's face. Leonato says no. says is "Another Hero!" He does not apologize to her, and he
Claudio takes her hand and says "I am your husband, if you like does not beg for her forgiveness. He doesn't even say he loves
of me," and Hero removes her mask. She tells him, "One Hero her. Because of this Claudio is one of Shakespeare's least
died defiled, but I do live,/And surely as I live, I am a maid." sympathetic romantic leads. For him the idea of Hero is more
Everyone rejoices. exciting and deserving of his love than Hero herself.

Benedick interrupts to ask which woman is Beatrice. She The plot to bring together Beatrice and Benedick is made
unmasks herself. By this point he's figured out what Leonato public in this final scene of the play, and for a moment it looks
was trying to tell him before the wedding. He asks, "Do you not like they're going to forget all thoughts of love and go back to
love me?" Beatrice says "Why no, no more than reason." They where they began. They are both embarrassed to have fallen
quickly unravel the plot conceived to make them fall in love and for such a simple ruse, and they're also made uncomfortable
agree they love each other only as friends. Nobody believes by the idea of publicly admitting they have changed their minds
them, and Claudio and Hero both produce sonnets Benedick about love and marriage. But the sonnets discovered by
and Beatrice wrote to one another. Benedick declares, "Here's Claudio and Hero serve as proof that what the heart wants is
our own hands against our hearts." He says he'll take Beatrice sometimes different than what the mind wants. Beatrice and
for his wife out of pity, and she agrees but only because she Benedick didn't want to fall in love with one another, yet found
heard he was dying of consumption. They kiss. themselves writing love poems to express their feelings.
Against their better judgment they fell in love and reconsidered
Don Pedro asks Benedick if he'll enjoy being married, and
their previous stances against matrimony.
Benedick revokes all of his previous thoughts about marriage.
He and Claudio joke about how it's a good thing they are going Much Ado About Nothing ends with everyone happy except the
to become relatives, or else they would have beaten the tar out suddenly melancholy Don Pedro. His boys' club has disbanded
of each other. Everyone is happy save Don Pedro, whom in favor of marriage, leaving him the sole bachelor. In a
Benedick thinks looks sad. "Get thee a wife, get thee a wife," complete reversal from the beginning of the play, Benedick
he tells the prince. News arrives of Don John's capture, and urges Don Pedro to find himself a wife, for such is the way to
Benedick promises to think of a suitable punishment for him. happiness. In just a few short days, Benedick has completely
The play ends. reversed his ideas about marriage. Though he had feared the
embarrassing horns of the cuckold, he now embraces his wife,
whom he refers to as a "staff ... tipped with horn." Benedick is
Analysis certain Beatrice will always remain true.

Leonato's declaration of Don Pedro's and Claudio's innocence

indicates he has forgiven them for their role in Hero's dishonor.
This is probably for the best. Don Pedro is Leonato's superior g Quotes
in both government and social class, and Claudio is going to
marry Leonato's daughter. Life will be a lot easier for Leonato if
he can forgive and forget. The one person he doesn't forgive is
"Shall I never see a bachelor of
Margaret, who he says "was in some fault for this,/Although threescore again?"
against her will." Margaret is a servant in Leonato's household,
so he can afford to take out his anger on her.
— Benedick, Act 1, Scene 1
Though Leonato has forgiven Claudio, he doesn't exactly trust

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Quotes 26

Benedick is dismayed by Claudio's rash decision to marry In a conversation with himself, Benedick rationalizes his
Hero. For someone who does not believe in marriage, it's hard sudden interest in marriage by pointing out decisions made in
for Benedick to understand why one of his closest friends is one's youth are not binding.
suddenly obsessed with it.

"But it would better fit your honor

"It must not be denied but I am a
to change your mind."
plain-dealing villain."
— Don John, Act 3, Scene 2
— Don John, Act 1, Scene 3

Don John tries to prevent the marriage of Claudio and Hero by

Shakespeare isn't going for subtlety in Much Ado About appealing to Claudio's ego. He knows the fastest way to break
Nothing. Don John literally proclaims himself a villain in his first up the happy couple is to tell Claudio Hero isn't good enough
major scene. This lets the audience know there isn't anything for him.
more to his character than the desire to create chaos.

"Our watch, sir, have indeed

"We are the only love gods."
comprehended two aspicious
— Don Pedro, Act 2, Scene 1 persons."

Don Pedro believes he's something of an expert in love and — Dogberry, Act 3, Scene 5

feels he and his friends can make better matches than Cupid.
Don Pedro's self-importance on this topic is in direct contrast Dogberry is notorious for malapropisms, or mixing up words
to his unmarried status throughout the play. that sound alike but mean very different things, often to
humorous effect. In this instance he mixes up auspicious, which
means "favorable or successful," with the word he really
"Bait the hook well; this fish will means, suspicious. Dogberry is trying to sound more important
and upper class than he actually is, which only serves to make
bite." him look foolish.

— Claudio, Act 2, Scene 3

"Hath no man's dagger here a

Claudio is encouraging Leonato's made-up story about how
point for me?"
Beatrice is desperately in love with Benedick, who is listening
on the other side of the hedge. If the story is good enough,
Benedick will believe it. — Leonato, Act 4, Scene 1

Leonato is worried only about himself, not his daughter, when

"A man loves the meat in his youth Hero is accused of sleeping with an unknown man. In
Elizabethan England an unmarried woman's virtue (namely her
that he cannot endure in his age." virginity) was considered to be the responsibility of her father.
If Hero were unchaste, Leonato's reputation would be ruined
— Benedick, Act 2, Scene 3 as well.

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Quotes 27

Though Borachio confessed to being the mastermind of the

"O God, that I were a man! I would
plan behind Hero's slander, Leonato thinks Claudio and Don
eat his heart in the marketplace." Pedro should take an equal share of the blame. They were the
ones who believed the untrustworthy Don John, and they were
— Beatrice, Act 4, Scene 1 the ones who publicly shamed Hero in the church. He thinks
her "death" is more their fault than anyone else's, conveniently
forgetting his own role in her shame.
Beatrice feels helpless when her cousin is accused of sleeping
with a man outside of wedlock. As a woman she has no
recourse against Claudio. Her desire to be a man in this
situation illustrates how very little power women had during the
"Thou and I are too wise to woo
Elizabethan era. peaceably."

— Benedick, Act 5, Scene 2

"But masters, remember that I am
an ass." Benedick and Beatrice continue their merry war of words even
after acknowledging their love for one another. Their attempts
— Dogberry, Act 4, Scene 2 to conform to the standards of traditional courtship seem false
as they try to repress the wit that brought them together in the
first place.
Dogberry is seriously offended when Conrade calls him an ass,
and he wants to make sure everyone remembers it when it's
time for Conrade's punishment. Instead, Dogberry's reminders
just reinforce the idea he is, indeed, an ass.
"And surely as I live, I am a maid."

— Hero, Act 5, Scene 4

"What your wisdoms could not

During their first wedding ceremony, Claudio gives Hero no
discover, these shallow fools have
opportunity to defend herself against his slanderous claims. At
brought to light." their second wedding ceremony, she rebukes him (in the nicest
way possible) for not believing her in the first place.

— Borachio, Act 5, Scene 1

"Here's our own hands against our

Borachio points out that Don Pedro's and Claudio's combined
intelligence was no match for the witless Dogberry and Verges, hearts."
who managed to clear Hero's name without even trying. The
low-class, foolish Dogberry has somehow outsmarted the — Benedick, Act 5, Scene 4
prince.

Though Beatrice and Benedick protest they're no more than

friends, the sonnets they wrote to each other confirm they truly
"I thank you, princes, for my
do love one another. Neither likes the idea of being in love, but
daughter's death." they can't control how they feel.

— Leonato, Act 5, Scene 1

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Symbols 28

to deceive and to hide one's true feelings. Their most notable

l Symbols use is during the dance in Act 2, Scene 1. All of the men wear
masks, and in some versions of the play the women do, too.
Don Pedro wears a mask to woo Hero for Claudio, and

Horns Benedick wears a mask to find out Beatrice's feelings about

him. In these cases masks are symbols of insecurity. Claudio
worries he will not be able to adequately woo Hero, so he
sends a masked Don Pedro to do the job. Benedick is afraid to
Horns, such as those from a bull, are the traditional symbols of ask Beatrice how she feels about him face-to-face, but he
cuckoldry. A cuckold is a man whose wife sleeps with other feels safer doing so behind the anonymity of the mask. In a
men without his knowledge, which was a source of great worry sense the masks function as shields protecting male vanity
for men during the Elizabethan era. To be branded a cuckold from female scorn.
meant everyone except the husband knew about the wife's
extramarital activities, which would have been intensely
shameful for her husband. The horn is a perfect symbol of this
shame—everyone can see the horns on a cuckold's forehead Beards
while he cannot.

Don Pedro jokes with Benedick about the horns of the "savage
Beards were a sign of masculinity during the Elizabethan era.
bull" when Benedick protests against marriage, suggesting that
Benedick has a beard at the beginning of the play, and it can
marriage tames the wild bull. The symbol transforms
be assumed Claudio, "Lord Lackbeard," doesn't have one,
throughout the course of the play as the characters' views of
which Benedick attributes to Claudio's youth. Women of the
marriage transform. As Benedick approaches marriage,
era would have been attracted to a man with a beard, but not
Claudio promises Benedick's horns will be gold tipped, a
Beatrice. She "could not endure a husband with a beard on his
reference to Zeus.
face." Benedick, having had Beatrice's heart once before,
knows this. That's why he appears clean shaven in Act 3,
Scene 2. Shaving his beard symbolizes how he puts aside his
Poetry own preferences to please Beatrice.

The poems in Much Ado About Nothing symbolize Benedick

and Beatrice's failed attempts at a conventional romance. In
m Themes
the Elizabethan era poetry was often used to express romantic
feelings. Beatrice and Benedick both try their hands at it, as
evidenced by the sonnets their friends show as proof of their Honor
love, but they aren't natural poets. Benedick, in particular, frets
over rhyming schemes and eventually determines he "cannot
woo in festival terms." This is a sign their relationship will
Honor is the most important theme of Much Ado About
function differently from that of Hero and Claudio.
Nothing, and it's depicted in a few different ways. The first type
of honor is the adherence to what is right as a means of
protecting one's reputation. This is most often seen in Claudio.

Masks When Hero's chastity is called into question, Claudio publicly

scorns her to protect his own honor. He would rather let Hero
die than be linked to an unvirtuous woman. The same goes for
Don Pedro, who does not want to be remembered for helping
Masks are worn for two reasons in Much Ado About Nothing: forge the romance between the young lovers once Hero's

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Themes 29

virtue is questioned. Both Don Pedro and Claudio denounce Pedro think Hero is unchaste.
Hero to protect their reputations. Though it may not seem like The friar suggests Hero pretend to be dead to make
the nicest decision, it fits within the moral code of Elizabethan Claudio and Don Pedro feel guilty.
society. Leonato instructs Claudio to marry his niece (who is actually
Hero) sight unseen.
The second type of honor is chivalric honor, which holds men
are obligated to protect the wronged, the ill, and the inferior (as In most instances telling the truth would have been much
a woman, Hero fits into the first and third categories). To simpler and produced a better outcome. Hero wouldn't have
defend Hero's reputation, Benedick risks his own and his been slandered, Leonato wouldn't have wished her dead, and
friendships as well. More importantly he's defending the honor Beatrice and Benedick would have gotten together before the
of Leonato's entire family, particularly Beatrice. He uses his final scene of the play. But the truth may not have worked.
honor to protect her from shame and sadness, as well as to Benedick and Beatrice may never have accepted their love for
show her how much he cares about her. one another had they not been set up to overhear fake
conversations. And Claudio refused to listen to Hero when she
The third type of honor in Much Ado About Nothing is a tried to defend herself. Shakespeare uses trickery as a means
woman's honor, which is called into question in the play. In this of showing his characters the truth when they won't listen.
sense honor is a synonym for chastity or virtue. Women were
held to much higher standards than men in the Elizabethan era,
and they were expected to remain chaste until married. Failing
to do so would harm the reputation of the woman in question. Language
Her dishonor also reflected poorly on the woman's family,
particularly her father. When Hero's honor is called into
question, so is Leonato's, for it was his duty to ensure she
Language is important in any piece of literature, but it's
remained chaste. He, like Claudio and Don Pedro, has a lot to
especially significant in Much Ado About Nothing. Language
lose if Hero is proven to be unchaste. Everyone else's
distinguishes social status, separates the comic from the
reputation depends on hers.
serious, and serves as both weapon and balm. The latter is
most notable in the ongoing "merry war" between Benedick
and Beatrice. From Act 1, Scene 1 they twist one another's
Trickery words into insults and barbs. They are both quick on their feet
and even quicker with their tongues, and their wit distinguishes
them as the most intelligent of their group. Yet language can
be hurtful, and Benedick compares Beatrice's words to stabs.
Trickery and deception abound in Much Ado About Nothing, It's an apt metaphor, as Beatrice uses language to protect her
and the plots to deceive piggyback off one another through the heart from falling in love with Benedick again. When they are
end of the play. Some things, like bringing Beatrice and tricked into loving one another, the sharp jabs relax into playful
Benedick together, are for the good, while others are purely to banter peppered with "Sweet Beatrice" and "Alas, poor heart."
harm. Shakespeare doesn't take a stance on the use of tricks Beatrice and Benedick maintain their witty repartee throughout
to achieve a certain goal, but he does show how once the wooing phase, simply softening their words into those of
deceptions begin, they're hard to stop: love.

Don Pedro pretends to be Claudio and woos Hero for him. Language is also an indicator of social class in Much Ado
Don John tells Claudio Don Pedro is wooing Hero for About Nothing. The high-born nobles such as Don Pedro,
himself. Beatrice, and Leonato all speak gracefully, even when telling
Beatrice pretends she doesn't know Benedick is behind the dirty jokes. Characters of the serving class, including Margaret,
mask and insults him. use language not as refined. Margaret, in particular, tries to
Don Pedro creates a plan to bring Beatrice and Benedick match Beatrice's wit, but her delivery isn't nearly as smooth.
together by making each think one loves the other. The plainest language comes from the working class,
Borachio and Don John team up to make Claudio and Don

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Motifs 30

represented by the watch. They don't sugarcoat sentiments

with extra words or syllables. That's left up to Dogberry, who b Motifs
basically destroys the English language in an attempt to seem
more important than he really is. He wants to be respected by
his inferiors, the watchmen, and his superior, Leonato, so he
uses big words he doesn't understand, a verbal style frequently
Youth
associated with social climbers who then end up looking
From the first moment Claudio is mentioned in Much Ado
foolish.
About Nothing, so is his youth. One of the most notable things
Language is also used to delineate the difference between about the "young Florentine called Claudio" is his tender age.
comedy and tragedy in Much Ado About Nothing. The majority This reference serves a few purposes:
of the play is written in prose, but the tragic parts—for
Claudio's youth and inexperience make his feats in battle
example, when Claudio is accusing Hero of being
look all the more impressive, which makes him a viable
unchaste—are written in verse. This shift signals to the
suitor for Hero.
audience that the tone of the play is changing. For the most
His impetuousness in proposing to Hero can be attributed
part Claudio and Hero speak in verse, while Beatrice and
to his youth, as can his desire to be wed immediately. He
Benedick speak in prose.
tends to rush headfirst into things. It takes someone older,
such as Leonato, to explain that some things, like weddings,
take time to prepare.

Gender Politics Youth is also responsible for his gullibility. He has neither
the wisdom nor experience of Benedick, and as such, he's
willing to believe just about anything anyone tells him. This
makes him the perfect target for Don John's villainy not
Many of the injustices in Much Ado About Nothing have to do once, but twice.
with gender. Women were treated like second-class citizens in
the Elizabethan era, and as such, they weren't afforded many
opportunities to better their situations without the assistance Dirty Jokes
of a father or a husband. Women could inherit property but not
as much as a man, and though many women did work, they
As in most of William Shakespeare's works, Much Ado About
didn't have the opportunity for high-paying careers like doctors
Nothing is filled with double entendres and dirty jokes, some of
or lawyers. A man's word was considered more trustworthy
which are downright scandalous. For example:
and valuable than a woman's, even if the woman was in the
right. This happens to Hero, who is accused of being unchaste Beatrice has a knack for relating most of her conversations
and is not given the opportunity to defend herself and prove to the act of marital congress in which the woman is literally
her accusers wrong. and metaphorically beneath her husband, such as in Act 2,
Scene 1.
Gender is also an indicator of power, both when the play was
In Act 2, Scene 3 Claudio mentions a sheet of paper found
written and within the play itself. Hero's father rules her life, for
by Hero, which prompts Leonato to make a comment about
women were generally in their father's charge until they were
"'Benedick' and 'Beatrice' between the sheet."
married. Beatrice feels the acute pain of powerlessness due to
When Beatrice has a cold in Act 3, Scene 4 Margaret makes
her gender: "O God, that I were a man!" she rages to Benedick
a joke about a maid being "stuffed," or pregnant.
after Claudio slanders Hero. She wants to avenge her cousin's
name, but as a woman she must rely on Benedick to uphold These jokes are of course meant to be entertaining, but like
Hero's honor. This is a double blow to a woman who prides the rest of the language in the play, they also indicate
herself on not needing a man for anything. important qualities of the characters who tell them and hear
them. Beatrice's double entendres are sly and not immediately
recognizable as such, while Margaret's puns and quips are

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Much Ado About Nothing Study Guide Suggested Reading 31

intended to be salacious. Beatrice is praised for her wit, which

is much like that of the men in the play, while Margaret is called
out for being vulgar. Thus Beatrice is established as nobility
and an equal to the men in the play, while Margaret is
constantly trying to claw her way into the upper class. And
Hero, who represents Elizabethan femininity at its best, is
shocked when Margaret even mentions sex. She would never
be caught saying such things.

e Suggested Reading
Baumgartner, Mark. "The Recording of an Ass: The Role of
Dogberry in Much Ado About Nothing." Knox College Common
Room, 3.1, 28 Jan. 2000. Web.

Hunt, Maurice. "The Reclamation of Language in Much Ado

About Nothing." Studies In Philology 97.2 (2000): 165.
Academic Search Elite. Web.

Papp, Joseph, and Elizabeth Kirkland. "The Status of Women in

Shakespeare's Time." EXPLORING Shakespeare. Detroit: Gale,
2003. Student Resources in Context. Web.

"Shakespeare and Comedy." The Library of Birmingham.

Birmingham City Council, n.d. Web.

Shakespeare, William. Much Ado About Nothing. Ed. Claire

McEachern. Rev. ed. New York: Bloomsbury Arden
Shakespeare, 2006. Print.

White, Richard Grant. Studies in Shakespeare. Boston:

Houghton, 1887. Shakespeare Online. 20 Aug. 2000. Web.

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