Much Ado About Nothing - Summary

Act I, scene I

A messenger brings word to Leonato that Don Pedro of Aragon is passing through Messina on his return from a victorious battle. Then Beatrice asks if Benedick is part of the company, but then hides her interest in the news. Shortly the company of Don Pedro, Claudio, and Benedick arrives and Beatrice and Benedick trade clever remarks with one another, both professing that love is only for fools. Meanwhile Claudio, attracted by Hero's beauty, thinks he is in love. He asks Benedick what he thinks of the lady, but Benedick only rails against marriage and womankind. Don Pedro, however, supports Claudio's interest in Hero, and tells him that he will speak to Hero and her father during the masked revels that evening.

Act I, scene II

A complication arises immediately when Antonio reports to Leonato that he overheard the Prince telling Claudio that he is in love with Hero. Leonato says that he'll wait to see what will happen.

Act I, scene III

Meanwhile Don John, Don Pedro's bastard brother, hides his hateful nature, waiting for the right moment to cause problems for his brother and Claudio, who he thinks has taken his place in his brother's affections. He hopes Claudio's desire to wed Hero will give him an occasion to cause some mischief.

Act II, scene I

Leonato and his daughter and niece are ready for the party to begin. While Beatrice complains that there is no man who can match her spirit, Hero obediently consents to her father's counsel to accept the Prince when he woos. All wear masks for the dance which leads to confusion and fun. Don Pedro talks to Hero privately while Benedick and Beatrice exchange insults. Meanwhile, Don John tries to cause trouble by telling Claudio that Pedro plans to wed Hero himself. Claudio thinks he has lost Hero and becomes very angry with Pedro. However, Pedro comes in to announce that he has completed the match between Hero and Claudio, and instantly Claudio's jealousy turns to joy. Now that the wedding is arranged, the Duke proposes a plan to get Beatrice and Benedick fall in love with one another.

Act II, scene II

Don John and Borachio hatch a scheme to thwart Claudio's marriage plans by making Hero seem unchaste. Borachio will arrange to meet with Margaret at Hero's window in the middle of the night. Thereby, he will fool the Duke and Claudio into believing that Hero is having an affair.