book

Cherished Characters - Much Ado About Nothing

2 Pages 581 Words February 2015

William Shakespeare's “Much Ado About Nothing," is a romantic comedy that revolves around two couples: Hero and Claudio – who are central to the main plot - and Benedick and Beatrice, who are woven into the subplot. The latter couple are, because of their witty and humorous dispositions, are what could be considered "fan favorites." Shakespeare, familiar with what appealed to his audience, wrote these characters with the intent to capture their hearts.
Beatrice represents a modern woman who breaks free from the social norms, which preferred quiet and subdued women, only to be seen and not to be heard, like her cousin Hero. Beatrice is a strong character, she is witty, sometimes scornful, bold, sarcastic and amidst all this- emotional. She professes a stubborn malignity towards the opposite sex but also possesses a lurking fascination for her ‘enemy – Benedick.
When we are introduced to Beatrice, we see her as the great lady, bright, brilliant, beautiful, enforcing admiration as she moves among fine ladies and accomplished gallants of her circle. She has a quick eye to see what is weak or ridiculous in man or woman. “Has Signior Mountanto returned from the wars or no?” This is how we are introduced to this fascinating woman who at first seems spiteful and full of scorn. It is perhaps not a coincidence that her very first dialogue in the play betrays her passion Benedick, although it is masked by sarcasm. Benedick and Beatrice’s lengthened relationship is made known to us over the course of the play. They have always had “a skirmish of wits” between them. Their persistent raillery against each other reveals their hidden liking for each other more than they are willing to admit. The duo are tyrants, relentlessly criticizing the opposite sex.
Although Beatrice is scornful and obstinate, she is not wayward. When Hero and Ursula gull Beatrice into following them into the pleached bower, she is struck by what is though of ...

Page 1 of 2 Next >

Related Essays:

Loading...