When gentle Hero meets the shy Claudio in this comedy by William Shakespeare, there is alas quite a bit of spice in the gumbo with Beatrice, aka Lady Tongue, and the blunt Benedick as they banter to beat the bands. Don Pedro and company arrive at Messina and go to the home of the governor, Hero’s father and Beatrice’s uncle, Leonata. The unsavory half-brother of Don Pedro, Don John, is, as Kate said, a contaminant and sets out to destroy happiness wherever it crops up.
Notable Quotes:
Beatrice: I’d rather hear my dog bark at a crow than a man swear he loves me.
Claudio: Bait the hook well: this fish will bite.
Benedict: That a woman conceived me, I thank her; that she brought me up, I likewise give her most humble thanks; all women shall pardon me…I will live a bachelor.
Friar: That what we have we prize not to the worth whiles we enjoy it; but being Jack’d and lost, why, then we rack the value…
Much can be gleaned from this short play! Trust plays a part in all relationships. One’s inner circle must be made up of trusted people. Don Pedro’s had an unsavory character. Impulsiveness is an issue for Claudio, who believes without giving Hero a chance to defend herself. Don John knows that people tend to believe the worst, especially with a set-up visual. He stacks up the dominoes and waits for the drama to fall.
Join in on the fun recapping this climactic, chaotic comedy from the Wiley Wordsmith!
May blessings come to you, listeners so dear,
We hope you enjoy another classic from Shakespeare!