Much Ado About Nothing - Scene 1 detail Analysis

Much ado about nothing is one of the all-time favorite comedies of Shakespeare. The text apart from its regular jocular mood delves deep into the human psychology and behavior which makes its study relevant not only today but unto the incarnation of 'men of some other mettle than earth' as Beatrice puts in!

The play begin with Leonato the governor of Messina, his 'short daughter' Hero, his niece Beatrice and a messenger. The initial scene is set in the orchard of Leonato where a messenger brings forth the news that Don Pedro the price of Aragon was soon going to arrive at his place.

"Messenger: He was hardly three leagues off when I last left him."

The messenger intended to inform Leonato that Pedro was just about fourteen kilometers away and would arrive at any odd moment. This piece of information was vital, as per the customs of the 16^th century England the prince must be entertained in the most extravagant style. For if he displeased, he rages a war against the opponent who then is completely shattered. Although Pedro was not such a stereotypical king. The facet will be illumined later on.

"Leonato: How many men have been killed?

Messenger: None, and a few of any sort."

These two dialogues show the entire social structure at that time. It was not only essential to conquer but also to bring back full numbers.

"Leonato: A victory is twice itself when the conqueror brings back full numbers."

As without those high class officials the kingdom would again be at stake. But it also should be marked that commoners at that time were not even considered as people or counted in number of deaths.

Then as the conversations progresses the bravery, courage and exceptional service of the 'young Florentine Claudio is discussed. The joy of his uncle who is never again mentioned in the play is expressed. He was also rewarded by Pedro.

Meanwhile Breatice asks, "Has signor Montanto returned or no?"

This question baffles the messenger but Hero chips in and says, "My cousin means Signor Benedick of Padua."

This particular statement shows the intimacy shared by the two cousins. Hero overtly is a very modest, reserved woman of 16th century. But in the presence of her cousin she expresses the deepest mysteries hidden in the heart of her heats. The bond that they share is noteworthy.

Before the prince arrives Beatrice shows her wit and humiliated Benedick severely. This shows that she wasn't a 16^th century women. She was outright and acrid in her speech. She didn't care of the social norms and was a rebel. Upon the arrival of price he is welcomed.

"Leonato: ….For trouble being gone happiness remains. As your liege takes his leave, happiness also take its leave and sorrow abides."

This is demonstrative of the upper class people. They were rather snobbish and took on to flattery.

"Pedro: Your hand Leonato."

This line indicates the amicable behavior of Pedro at earlier.

There also happen a 'skirmish of wit' between Benedick and Beatrice. Benedick makes use of the word 'My lady Disdain!' which is heartily accepted by Beatrice. To respect ladies was a courtship and to call someone disdainful was a sin that probably even Satan wouldn't have ever come across! This indicates that these two might have been in relation. The fact is backed up when Beatrice says, "You always end up with a Jade's Trick."

As Pedro and with him everyone except Benedick and Claudio leave, Claudio expresses his heats desire to marry hero which is mocked at by Benedick by calling her 'Short daughter of Leonato' (short in all respects) On the contrary Pedro appreciating his love confirms the virginity of Hero and arranges for his marriage with hero. The key point to be noted here is that marriage was less a business of love. People were mad after prestige, reputation and property. For if love was the criterion the question of virginity or being the sole heir of property shouldn't have ever arisen. But nonetheless Pedro arranges to propose hero in during the reveling that night and break with his father. But there are also two instances of noting that occur in the consequent scenes.

Thus the first scene opens up the play by introducing all the major character. All of them are more or less exposed right in this scene. The entire play in the most intellectual manner possible. The connections to the later parts of the play are well established and the readers are prompted to think and marvel and anxiously wait for the play to unfold itself!