As the title would suggest, the characters in Shakespeare's much-loved comedy are prone to making a big fuss over very little. But there is a lot of fun on the way — the plot bursts with elaborateComplicated. schemes, misunderstandings and bruised egos, as two couples make their way towards a happy ending. Hero and Claudio fall instantly in love, only to be torn apart by the lies and manipulations of others. Meanwhile, Benedick and Beatrice are the heroes of countless rom-coms to come: witty and strong individuals who declare that they will never fall in love, until suddenly they realise that they already have. The “merry war” between them has captured the hearts of audiences since the play’s first appearance in 1598. At the same time, the serious questions the play asks about love, trust, and the relationships between the sexes make it more serious than its light-hearted appearance.
Much Ado About Nothing
Glossary
Elaborate - Complicated.
Misogynistic - Strong and deeply ingrained prejudice against women.
Rhetoric - The art of persuasion.
Renaissance - The "rebirth" of Western learning began in the late 15th century, as European scholars rediscovered ancient manuscripts and began to make developments in science and art.
- Someone who is important due to their rank or job.
Promiscuity - Having many sexual partners.
Poniards - A historical term for a small, thin dagger.