Much Ado About Nothing - Shakespeare - Leslie Howard - Rosalind Russell - Columbia Presents

Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy by William Shakespeare thought to have been written in 1598 and 1599. The play was included in the First Folio, published in 1623.

"Nothing" in the title refers to "noting," meaning gossip, rumour, or overhearing

In Messina, a messenger brings news that Don Pedro will return that night, from a successful battle, along with Claudio and Benedick. Beatrice asks the messenger about Benedick, and mocks his ineptitude as a soldier. Leonato explains that "There is a kind of merry war betwixt Signor Benedick and her."

On the soldiers' arrival, Leonato invites Don Pedro to stay for a month; Benedick and Beatrice resume their "merry war"; and Pedro's illegitimate brother, Don John, is introduced. Claudio's feelings for Hero are rekindled, and he informs Benedick of his intention to court her. Benedick, who openly despises marriage, tries to dissuade him; but Don Pedro encourages the marriage. Benedick swears that he will never marry. Don Pedro laughs at him, and tells him that he will when he has found the right person.

A masquerade ball is planned, during which a disguised Don Pedro woos Hero, on Claudio's behalf. Don John uses this situation to get revenge on him,[clarification needed] telling Claudio that Don Pedro is wooing Hero for himself. Claudio rails against the entrapments of beauty; but the misunderstanding is later resolved, and Claudio is promised Hero's hand in marriage.

Originally Broadcast 7/19/1937

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