Much Ado About Nothing

Starring:Chris Barnes, Kate Beckinsale, Brian Blessed, Richard Briers, Richard Clifford, Patrick Doyle, Andy Hockley, Gerard Horan, Michael Keaton, Phyllida Law, Robert Sean Leonard, Alex Lowe, Conrad Nelson, Keanu Reeves, Alex Scott (III), Imelda Staunton, Emma Thompson, Denzel Washington, Jimmy Yuill
Studio: MGM (Video & DVD)
Product Type: DVD
Editorial Review:
Amazon.com
Kenneth Branagh's 1993 production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is a vigorous and imaginative work, cheerful and accessible for everyone. Largely the story of Benedick (Branagh) and Beatrice (Emma Thompson)--adversaries who come to believe each is trying to woo the other--the film veers from arched wit to ironic romps, and the two leads don't mind looking a little silly at times. But the plot is also layered with darker matters that concern the ease with which men and women fall into mutual distrust. Branagh has rounded up a mixed cast of stage vets and Hollywood stars, among the latter Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton, the latter playing a rather seedy, Beetlejuice-like version of Dogberry, king of malapropisms. The DVD release has optional full-screen and widescreen presentations, Dolby sound, optional Spanish and French soundtracks or subtitles.--Tom Keogh
Average customer rating:
- My favorite!
- Branagh Does Another Fine Shakespeare!
- Cute movie for a rainy day
- Much Ado About Nothing
- Much Ado about this film.
|
Much Ado About Nothing
Starring: Chris Barnes , Kate Beckinsale , Brian Blessed , Richard Briers , and Richard Clifford
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
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ASIN: B0000714BZ
Release Date: 2003-01-07 |
Amazon.com
Kenneth Branagh's 1993 production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is a vigorous and imaginative work, cheerful and accessible for everyone. Largely the story of Benedick (Branagh) and Beatrice (Emma Thompson)--adversaries who come to believe each is trying to woo the other--the film veers from arched wit to ironic romps, and the two leads don't mind looking a little silly at times. But the plot is also layered with darker matters that concern the ease with which men and women fall into mutual distrust. Branagh has rounded up a mixed cast of stage vets and Hollywood stars, among the latter Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton, the latter playing a rather seedy, Beetlejuice-like version of Dogberry, king of malapropisms. The DVD release has optional full-screen and widescreen presentations, Dolby sound, optional Spanish and French soundtracks or subtitles.--Tom Keogh
Description
Full of "sparkling merriment" (The Hollywood Reporter), this sexy, sunny comedy positively sizzles as one set of lovers battles against a dirty trick, and another set simply battleseach other! Adapted by Oscar® nominee* Kenneth Branagh and featuring an all-star cast, this charming romp "casts the battle of the sexes in the form of an elegant dance" (The New York Times). A military war has just ended, but the "merry war" between Beatrice (Emma Thompson) and Benedick (Branagh) rages on! Can their friends trick them into making love instead? For that matter, can another couple's devotion survive the evil Don John's (Keanu Reeves) vicious lies? It's up to the blundering constable (Michael Keaton) to save the day so that the course of true love may yet run smooth! *1989: Director, Actor, Henry V; 1992: Short Film-Live Action, Swan Song; 1996: Adapted Screenplay, Hamlet
Customer Reviews:
My favorite!.......2007-07-03
This is my favorite play by Shakespeare, and partially it is because this movie makes it easier to understand. Great actors, great movie!
Branagh Does Another Fine Shakespeare!.......2007-06-14
1993's "Much Ado About Nothing" is Kenneth Branagh's superb film rendering of Shakespeare's classic romantic comedy. Veteran Shakespeare actors Branagh, Emma Thompson, and Brian Blessed are joined by veteran Hollywood actors Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton. The movie features the then-young actors Keanu Reeves, Robert Sean Leondard, and Kate Beckinsale.
The movie is set at a sun-drenched and sumptious villa in Tuscany, where all have assembled for the pending wedding of Claudio (Robert Sean Leonard) and Hero (Kate Beckinsale). To the pass the time before the wedding, Don Pedro (Denzel Washington) sets up a romantic trap for the confirmed bachelor Benedick (Branagh) and his arch nemesis Beatrice (Thompson), who delight in their verbal tormenting of each other. Don Pedro allows the two to believe that each is intent on wooing the other. This deception is the heart of the movie, as through some delightful dialogue and hilarious scenes, Beatrice and Benedick arrive at a new appreciation of each other.
The romantic mood is almost spoiled by Don Juan (Keanu Reeves), who seeks to undermine the relationship of Claudio and Hero by suggesting that Hero has been unfaithful. Reeves looks uncomfortable with the material and his wooden performance as the villian shows it. Fortunately, the local sheriff (Michael Keaton), a bumbling, manic barrage of malapropisms, uncovers Don Juan's plot and saves the day.
This overlooked movie is highly recommended to fans of Shakespeare and Kenneth Branagh's film adaptations of them.
Cute movie for a rainy day.......2007-06-02
This flick is a very lively interpretation of Shakespeare's play Much Ado About Nothing. (For those of you who aren't familiar, take Romeo and Juliet + Taming of the Shrew, and you have Much Ado About Nothing). Performances are brilliant (if you're a fan of Robert Sean Leonard, you won't be disappointed), and the setting is absolutely gorgeous. I recommend it for a rainy day.
Much Ado About Nothing.......2007-05-12
I do not usually like Shakespeare, but this movie is very enjoyable.
The actors and actresses are top notch.
It does prove that Shakespeare can be enjoyed and understood.
Much Ado about this film........2007-05-08
This is a wonderful adaptation of Shakespeare's play.
The transition from stage to film is accomplished
with incredible energy. Everyone that is in this
film really seems to enjoy what they are doing.
The settings, costumes, music, and cinematography
are all beautiful. If you are sceptical about some
of the cast members, try to withhold your judgment
until you have seen this film. You will be pleasantly
surprised. Even if you are not a fan of Shakespeare,
this film is a delight to watch.
Average customer rating:
- Authentic version of Much Ado About Nothing
- Jaunty introduction to MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
- Sorry, it's not funny - it kills a very playful script.
- Playful reworking of one of the Bard's best comedies
- Shakespeare Meets the Old West
|
Much Ado About Nothing / New York Shakespeare Festival (Broadway Theatre Archive)
Starring: Sam Waterston , Kathleen Widdoes , Barnard Hughes , Bette Henritze , and Arny Freeman
Director: Nick Havinga
Manufacturer: Kultur Video
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- Hamlet / Kline, New York Shakespeare Festival (Broadway Theatre Archive)
- Twelfth Night
ASIN: B00006RCMU
Release Date: 2002-09-24 |
Description
In 1972, twenty million people saw the broadcast of this CBS-TV production of Shakespeare's classic tale of romance, mistaken identity, and the battle of the sexes. Though this turn-of-the-century version has Roosevelt's Rough-Riders and bicycle riding suffragettes, the story is the same: Beatrice and Benedick fight their merry war of words; the evil Don Juan conspires to disrupt the wedding of Hero and Claudio; and it's up to Dogbery to save the day. Critically acclaimed and loved by audiences, this rollicking comedy is brassy, bouncy and all-together entertaining. First presented at the New York Shakespeare Festival, this production later became the first truly successful Shakespeare play in Broadway history that did not boast a major star. Features Oscar-nominee Sam Waterston (Law & Order)as Benedick and the Tony-nominated performances of Emmy-winners Kathleen Widdoes (As the World Turns) and Barnard Hughes (Midnight Cowboy).
Customer Reviews:
Authentic version of Much Ado About Nothing.......2007-03-07
Since I wrote a scathing review of the 1993 movie version of "Much Ado About Nothing" (directed by Kenneth Branagh) and recommended this version instead, I feel I ought to review this version and give it a well deserved boost. If you like your Shakespeare authentic, this is the version you should buy.
I love Shakespeare. I have seen his plays performed on the stage, on TV, and in the movies. The best productions of Shakespeare are stage productions -- these are the closest to the way the plays would have been done if you had been alive to see one in Elizabethan times. If you cannot make it to a stage production, this version in the next best thing.
Because Shakespeare is dead and the copyright has run out on his plays hundreds of years ago, producers and directors can take any liberties they want when putting on one of Shakespeare's plays. Sometimes the liberties add to the play and sometimes they detract. All of the liberties that Joseph Papp has taken are comic and add to this version.
An example of a good interpretation: I saw a stage version of "The Taming of the Shrew" at ACT in San Francisco in the 70s. At the end of Act V, as Kate puts her hand under Petruchio's foot following her famous "duty of a wife" speech, she turns aside to the audience and broadly winks -- turning a misogynistic speech into a sly triumph for women. The audience roared with delight.
In this version, Joseph Papp has moved "Much Ado About Nothing" to around the 1900s. Beatrice is a suffragette. Benedick is one of Teddy Roosevelt's rough riders. The result is a witty war of the sexes. Slapstick scenes are added by including the Keystone Kops.
Because this is a stage version, it does not contain the beautiful Italian scenery that takes up so much air time in Kenneth Branagh's 1993 movie version. What the heck Branagh's beautiful Italian scenery has to do with Shakespeare is a mystery to me. In Branagh's version Shakespeare's lines are cut to make room for both the scenery and the extremely slow recitation of the lines that remain.
In Joseph Papp's version, the dialog is fast so people who have not read an annotated version of the play first may not be able to keep up. (See negative review below.) However, Shakespearean plays should have fast dialog -- that is the way the Bard wrote it to be played.
Shakespearean comedies are meant to be light and madcap, with mistaken identities and cross-dressing and outright clowning. This is what appealed to audiences around 1600. A good modern version of a Shakespearean comedy compares well to a Monty Python movie in silliness.
There are no big name stars in this version (although I have always been fond of Sam Waterson). The conversations between Benedick and Beatrice are all the more wittier for their rapid fire delivery. (There's something about a slow delivery that flattens out the wit.)
This is a version of "Much Ado About Nothing" that Shakespeare himself would have heartily approved of and enjoyed. I hope you enjoy it too.
Jaunty introduction to MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING.......2005-06-18
I was one of the 20 million viewers watching the original production on tv -- and fell in love with the show. The idea of updating the play to turn of the century America was a lot of fun - plus the addition of period music and beautiful costumes.
Thought the leading players - Beatrice Widdowes and Sam Waterston were excellent in their parts -- and Barnard Hughes as Dogberry the Constable was delightful.
The only reason I watched this production in the first place was the idea that a Shakespearean play had been updated to "modern" times...I usually avoided the Bard's plays - not my cup of tea..but this production was a joy from beginning to end.
I also highly recommend the Kenneth Branagh/Emma Thompson version -- a visual feast for the eyes -- and it keeps up the interest.
Sorry, it's not funny - it kills a very playful script........2005-05-20
As an English teacher who teaches "Much Ado" every year, I was thrilled to find an alternative version of this play on DVD (I enjoy the Kenneth Branagh version, but it is not definitive), and the enthusiastic reviews convinced me to purchase it.
Unfortunately, while the 1920's concept seems like a good idea and this version includes a greater portion of Shakespeare's original script, this film loses the spirit of the play to wooden acting, heavy-handed directing, and a lack of humor. It may be that this version played well onstage, but it plays very poorly on screen.
Quite frankly, this version bores me to tears.
I wish I could recommend it. I show parts of it to my 9th graders each spring so that they can see how differently Shakespeare can be interpreted, but they and I both hate this version and yearn to return to Branagh's interpretation.
I await a better production to use for comparison with the Branagh version.
Playful reworking of one of the Bard's best comedies.......2002-12-29
I saw this version of one of Shakespeare's "war of the sexes" comedies when it was first broadcast on television in 1970. I was immediately won over to the idea that an intelligent director and ensemble could do a lot to make Shakespeare accessible to a new generation by simply setting his plays in a different era. The turn-of-the-century American setting worked perfectly. The women challenge male authority by sneaking a smoke, Dogberry and his entourage are portrayed as Keystone cops. The cast was excellent. Kathleen Widdoes and Sam Waterson were equally convincing in their gender battles, their self-righteous moments, and in their tender love scenes.
What struck me on my recent viewing was just how dark this comedy gets. Claudio is easily convinced of his fiancee's infidelity and publicly humiliates her and repudiates his vows. Although everything, and everyone, is reconciled in the end, we realize that the turf between true heroes and true villains is amply populated with fools, wimps, and cads.
Athough this is more of a filmed stage production than a movie version of the play, it is cleverly filmed and engaging. Personally, I prefer this version to Branaugh's filmed version (which I enjoyed immensely but felt it was less faithful to Shakespeare's text.) Unfortunately, there are no real DVD extras to this landmark production; but the performance is worth the purchase price.
Shakespeare Meets the Old West.......2002-12-10
I first saw this version of Much Ado about Nothing in the '70's, and have remembered it ever since, so I was delighted when the Broadway Theatre Archive made it available again. The setting, the "Rough Riders" era of the turn of the century, somehow suits the material better than any other I've seen, in particular Dogberry and his inept Watchmen, who appear here as Keystone Kops. Sam Waterston and Kathleen Widdoes are both completely believable, and the supporting cast is excellent.
This version is for those who want to savor every moment of the play. As far as I could tell, it includes almost every word of Shakespeare's text, and to that are added quite a few sequences without dialogue, making the entire length of the production closer to three hours than to two. For this play, this is definitely to my taste, but may not be to everyone's.
The DVD includes nothing but the performance and scene selections (by acts only). Since this play was originally filmed for television, the visual and sound quality are not exceptional, although they're not actually bad.
Average customer rating:
- My favorite!
- Branagh Does Another Fine Shakespeare!
- Cute movie for a rainy day
- Much Ado About Nothing
- Much Ado about this film.
|
Much Ado About Nothing
Starring: Chris Barnes , Kate Beckinsale , Brian Blessed , Richard Briers , and Richard Clifford
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
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ASIN: 0767802594
Release Date: 1998-01-20 |
Amazon.com
Kenneth Branagh's 1993 production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is a vigorous and imaginative work, cheerful and accessible for everyone. Largely the story of Benedick (Branagh) and Beatrice (Emma Thompson)--adversaries who come to believe each is trying to woo the other--the film veers from arched wit to ironic romps, and the two leads don't mind looking a little silly at times. But the plot is also layered with darker matters that concern the ease with which men and women fall into mutual distrust. Branagh has rounded up a mixed cast of stage vets and Hollywood stars, among the latter Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton, the latter playing a rather seedy, Beetlejuice-like version of Dogberry, king of malapropisms. The DVD release has optional full-screen and widescreen presentations, Dolby sound, optional Spanish and French soundtracks or subtitles.--Tom Keogh
Customer Reviews:
My favorite!.......2007-07-03
This is my favorite play by Shakespeare, and partially it is because this movie makes it easier to understand. Great actors, great movie!
Branagh Does Another Fine Shakespeare!.......2007-06-14
1993's "Much Ado About Nothing" is Kenneth Branagh's superb film rendering of Shakespeare's classic romantic comedy. Veteran Shakespeare actors Branagh, Emma Thompson, and Brian Blessed are joined by veteran Hollywood actors Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton. The movie features the then-young actors Keanu Reeves, Robert Sean Leondard, and Kate Beckinsale.
The movie is set at a sun-drenched and sumptious villa in Tuscany, where all have assembled for the pending wedding of Claudio (Robert Sean Leonard) and Hero (Kate Beckinsale). To the pass the time before the wedding, Don Pedro (Denzel Washington) sets up a romantic trap for the confirmed bachelor Benedick (Branagh) and his arch nemesis Beatrice (Thompson), who delight in their verbal tormenting of each other. Don Pedro allows the two to believe that each is intent on wooing the other. This deception is the heart of the movie, as through some delightful dialogue and hilarious scenes, Beatrice and Benedick arrive at a new appreciation of each other.
The romantic mood is almost spoiled by Don Juan (Keanu Reeves), who seeks to undermine the relationship of Claudio and Hero by suggesting that Hero has been unfaithful. Reeves looks uncomfortable with the material and his wooden performance as the villian shows it. Fortunately, the local sheriff (Michael Keaton), a bumbling, manic barrage of malapropisms, uncovers Don Juan's plot and saves the day.
This overlooked movie is highly recommended to fans of Shakespeare and Kenneth Branagh's film adaptations of them.
Cute movie for a rainy day.......2007-06-02
This flick is a very lively interpretation of Shakespeare's play Much Ado About Nothing. (For those of you who aren't familiar, take Romeo and Juliet + Taming of the Shrew, and you have Much Ado About Nothing). Performances are brilliant (if you're a fan of Robert Sean Leonard, you won't be disappointed), and the setting is absolutely gorgeous. I recommend it for a rainy day.
Much Ado About Nothing.......2007-05-12
I do not usually like Shakespeare, but this movie is very enjoyable.
The actors and actresses are top notch.
It does prove that Shakespeare can be enjoyed and understood.
Much Ado about this film........2007-05-08
This is a wonderful adaptation of Shakespeare's play.
The transition from stage to film is accomplished
with incredible energy. Everyone that is in this
film really seems to enjoy what they are doing.
The settings, costumes, music, and cinematography
are all beautiful. If you are sceptical about some
of the cast members, try to withhold your judgment
until you have seen this film. You will be pleasantly
surprised. Even if you are not a fan of Shakespeare,
this film is a delight to watch.
Average customer rating:
|
Kizuna Much Ado About Nothing
Manufacturer: Kitty Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
Similar Items:
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ASIN: B000NKQYMK |
Average customer rating:
- mrs.depp
- Matt Jones' Much Ado Review
- Katie A gbcs
- Another Love Story
- Much Ado About Nothing.
|
Much Ado About Nothing [Region 2]
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- The Taming of the Shrew (The New Folger Library)
- Twelfth Night: or, What You Will (Signet Classics)
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- Othello (The Signet Classic Shakespeare)
ASIN: B00004RCK2 |
Amazon.com
Kenneth Branagh's 1993 production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is a vigorous and imaginative work, cheerful and accessible for everyone. Largely the story of Benedick (Branagh) and Beatrice (Emma Thompson)--adversaries who come to believe each is trying to woo the other--the film veers from arched wit to ironic romps, and the two leads don't mind looking a little silly at times. But the plot is also layered with darker matters that concern the ease with which men and women fall into mutual distrust. Branagh has rounded up a mixed cast of stage vets and Hollywood stars, among the latter Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton, the latter playing a rather seedy, Beetlejuice-like version of Dogberry, king of malapropisms. --Tom Keogh
Customer Reviews:
mrs.depp.......2005-12-12
Much Ado About Nothing was a very well written play. It was a much lighter reading than Antigone and I think I liked and understood it better too. It was still hard to read and understand but I think the movie and actually seeing it being acted out helped a ton. I really didn't understand a lot of what was going on in the garden scene when they are trying to get Beatrice and Benedick to think they both love each other. So I was a little bummed when our group chose that to do the skit. But then as you read and actually break down the words it was actually very easy and fun to figure out what it means.
I think Shakespeare's main point in writing was to show people how funny love is. He has done tons of serious works and I think this was a great piece that kind of gave you a breath of fresh air. I think that was one of the reasons for writing this. To give the people who were coming to see it something a little lighter. I think this because the play focused a ton on the comedy of love. How you can get to people who started out hating each other to like each other.
I surprised myself in this question. I came into this play thinking that I will not like and I would not understand it. Although one of those statements is true the other one was false. I loved this script. In the beginning I thought it could show me nothing about my life or teach me anything and I was completely wrong. From this play I learned to not judge a book (or play) by its cover. I mean this literally. I came into this with a bad attitude and I realized that instead of doing that I should of had a good attitude and I could have enjoyed it more. Also in Beatrice and Benedick's situation they thought they could never like each other and they ended up falling in love. Some of the people I thought I could never be friends with I am very close friends with now.
Another thing it taught me was to not believe everything I hear. When Claudio heard that Hero was having an affair with someone he got mad and disgraced her and everyone thought she was a horrible person. But she never did and she really loved Claudio. I am a very big gossiper and I now realize how much they can hurt people.
I would totally recommend this script to others. Although you may think you can't learn much from it you really can. I would suggest, though, watching the movie after you read each act. It makes them so much easier to understand. Without the movie I think I would completely be lost and not understand the book at all. Also I would go into reading the book with a good attitude thinking that this can help you because if you don't, like me, you will wind up more confused than ever.
Matt Jones' Much Ado Review.......2005-12-08
This play was a particular relief of your average Shakespeare play, in that it is not a deep philosophical piece of literature. I personally loved reading this play and it does have many interesting values and lessons that one could learn and apply. In several instances I found myself laughing out loud just reading the script. Over all I would say that this is yet another one of Shakespears timeless classics that can still very easily be applied in almost every persons life today. Shakespeare wrote this play, as I believe, to show people how stupid they are and the foolish things that they do when they are in love. I personally do not really enjoy the drama of a love story, but this is a whole different animal.The characters in the story are completely normal citizens of an almost care- free society, but, when love comes knocking at their door they transform into completely zaney lunatics. The characters are, however, people and react in different ways. No matter how they do react it is a far cry from what they normally would do. Indeed, this story shows someone to what great lengths they will go in the name of love. For instance, Benedict, one of the main characters, falls in love with the main female and all of a sudden becomes a quiet, softspoken gentleman, who now cares about his appearance. Whereas before he was an opinionated man, who used sarcasm to get his points across. The story does portray very well what love is, different types of love, and how it is reacted to. This play has taught me many things, especially about women, but most of all it has taught me that there are two very specific types of love and that a person should experience both. One type of love, presented by Beatrice and Benedict is the real heart felt one, where both people know and care for one another and the other was demonstrated by Hera and Claudio. This type is known as "puppy love." Each couple represents their type of love very well and has helped me to realize which sort of love that I have, and have had with other people. This book is well worth whatever they are asking for it. If you really apply yourself you can get alot out of this story. The storyline is very good and lets you feel that you are a part of the story, like you know something that the other characters do not know. It is so involved that I often wanted to strangle some of the characters and tell others some great secret. Then I felt like a retard and stopped myself. This is a very light read and though it is mildly difficult to understand it is easy to understand what point Shakespeare is trying to get across. This story is so good because it teaches so many lessons without having this heavy blanket of philosophy shrouded around it. I would recommend this play to anyone who just simply enjoys a good read. If by chance you read this review, then realize this, I am not exagerrating of making any of this stuff up. This is a really good story without the deep thoughts and questions of life. So, in conclusion, this is just one person talking, but READ THE PLAY! It is really good and worth it, but you do not have to take my word for it.
Katie A gbcs.......2005-12-08
William Shakespeare's play "Much Ado About Nothing" was an extremely funny piece of literature. I thought that it was very cleverly planned out and humorously executed. With Dogberry and his men constantly mixing up words and their meanings it gave the readers a comic relief. The deceit and mistaken identities added so much humor to the already capturing story.
I believe that Shakespeare's main point in writing this play was to show that many times, people get worked up over simple miscommunications. You mishear something wrong, or in your anger, you tune out someone before getting all the facts. All that we would need to do to fix a certain problem would be going to the source of the information, but many times we take the easy way out. We jump the gun a little and choose to believe whatever is told to us despite our gut feeling that the information is wrong.
An example of this would be when Leonato has heard of Hero's scandalous evening with Borachio. Despite the fact that she is his daughter and he would know her better than anyone, Leonato believes the lies told about Hero. Leonato, being her father and the one who raised her, should have known his daughter well enough to know that she would not dishonor her fiancé and herself. Especially the night before the wedding that she has been waiting for. Instead of choosing to believe his daughter, who firmly denies any and all sexual relationships, he joins Claudio, Don John, and Don Pedro in disgracing her.
One lesson learned from "Much Ado About Nothing" is never should people automatically assume something to be correct. We should "take everything with a grain of salt"- test everything. People in the world these days are so willing to lie to us and readily do so without a second thought. Many times people are lied to without even knowing that someone has done so. True, sometimes the lying and deceit is all in good fun, but it still has the possibility of hurting someone. Even innocent lying has its consequences.
Benedick and Beatrice both believed almost immediately that what they had overheard their friends saying in the garden was correct and completely true. Neither person decided to test what they had heard. To see if what was said was true. Because both did not check to see if the information they heard was correct, everything worked out. Both assumed what they had heard was true and acted on it. There were no visible consequences. What a mess you would have if Benedick decided that what he had overheard could not possibly be true. Beatrice would have made a fool out of herself while thinking that Benedick felt the same way. The same could be said the other way around.
I would recommend this play to other readers. If people don't like to read, then I would not tell others about it. The combination of not liking to read and the difficulty of understanding Old English would not make a very fun and pleasurable read. Many would miss out on the humor and cleverness that Shakespeare brilliantly displayed to his audience. Readers on the other hand would most likely like this play. The humor and lightheartedness makes it an enjoyable play. I found myself constantly wanting to know what would happen next and how it would end- how Shakespeare would wrap it up. The happy ending was also a nice touch. Yes, the Old English adds a challenge to the reading. The sometimes hard to understand language makes you stop and think about what Shakespeare is trying to say and ultimately makes you stop and realize what he is truly trying to communicate to his audience.
Another Love Story.......2005-12-08
"Romeo, Romeo! Where for art thou Romeo?" Wait a minute, wrong play! In my opinion, Much Ado about Nothing was a very funny book/play and I somewhat enjoyed reading it. The only bad part about it is that it was a chick flick (or in its case a chick play). The old English also took away from the play sometimes. However, for the most part it was understandable. Overall, I believe Shakespeare probably had a reason for writing the play other than just for pure entertainment.
Much Ado about Nothing is a classic Shakespearian type play. It is a comedy about two young couples. One couple is Benedick and Beatrice. At the start of the play they are in love with one another, they just do not know it yet. They are constantly bickering and fighting with each other. The other couple Hero and Claudio, who are madly in love with each other (or so they think) plot to make Benedick and Beatrice realize that they are in love with each other. They also have help in the form of Leanato, Don Pedro, Margaret and Ursula. Meanwhile, Don Pedro's evil brother Don John along with his henchmen, Conrade and Borachio, plot to break up Hero and Claudio. The plan nearly succeeds, and the rather unusual constable Dogberry and his somewhat merry men must come to the rescue of Claudio's and hero's relationship.
As I said before, the main point of Shakespeare writing the play was probably for more than entertainment. I believe he also wrote it because he wanted to show how crazy love can make a person. In the play, Beatrice and Benedick fall in love with each other. After Claudio shames Hero, Beatrice was so upset that she asks that Benedick kills Claudio. Now that presents a problem because Benedick and Claudio are good friends. At first, Benedick is very reluctant to do this. So reluctant that he refuses to do this. After she says she will not love him any more Benedick immediately agrees to kill Claudio. Even though I would probably do the same thing in Benedick's position, it is still amazing what love can make you do.
Surprisingly, I actually learned something from this play. It's the simple fact that assumptions are very, very dangerous. Thanks to Don John and his henchmen's evil plot, Claudio thought that he had seen Hero cheating on him with Borachio. In reality, it was Margaret and Borachio that he saw. Acting on only what he saw, he shamed Hero and "killed" her.
In the end, it was another happily ever after moment. Personally, I expected a better ending, but that's just me. Yes, I would recommend this book but I myself did not love it. Too much love, not enough action and drama. However, it was very funny, especially the constable Dogberry (my favorite character in the book/play). Also the plot was well developed so that kept my interest. Overall, it was good and worth reading. I would give the book/play 8.11 out of 10. You would probably like it so go buy and read it. Great play, but it's just not for me.
Much Ado About Nothing........2005-12-08
Throughout the last couple of weeks, my class has been studying much ado about
nothing. Shakespear was an amazing writer in my opinion. He is able to write so little, yet
get his entire, deep point across. The play was called much ado about nothing because
throughout the entire play there was fighting and crying and decieving.. and for what?
Nothing. I beleive that i learned a lot from it. Not only about Shakespeares sytle of
writing, but about love too. To answer the question whats shakespeares purpose for
writing, i had to think carefully. But I beleive that his point of writing was to show the
real meaning of love. Throughout the entire play, there were people loving each other and
not knowing it, and loving each other but not knowing each other.. and it was just a huge
mess. Claudio and Hero had "love at first site" but Claudio beleived what he thought he
saw Hero doing on a roof, which proves that he didnt know her as well as he should to
love her. So I think that Shakespeare makes you wonder if their love was true or not. This
story had many values in it that one could learn. I, personally learned something very
important to which I had not seen before- How easily people mistake love for lust. An
example of this would be when Claudio and Hero met. They had no idea who each other
were, not even something as simple as their names, yet they were "in love". I do not see
how you can possibly be in love with someone from first site. That is called lust. I also
learned something very important to which I had not seen before- How stupid people act
when they are in love. An example of people acting weird and stupid when they are in
love would be Benedict and Beatrice. At first, they hated each other. The play starts out
with them being cruel, rude, and sarcastic to one another and the reader knows there is
something between them. Then, when they are both deceived and told that they love one
another, they start prancing around like fairies. Although this is funny, it is very weird
and confusing at the same time that their emotions towards each other can just change
automatically. Another example would be at Claudio and Hero's second wedding. After
all of this love talk, when their love is put out into the public, they start to deny it and say
they are just friends. Love makes them act so weird, but they end up deciding to be
together which I believe is for the good. This play is not extremely hard to understand, yet
has a meaningful story. It is written in old english so that is probably the most difficult
thing to understand about it. I would recommend it to someone who could use a good
laugh because of all the comic relief in it. There is loads of sarcasm and its written in an
interesting way. After all, it is Shakespeare. I would not, however, recommend this book
to someone who is expecting a deep, poetic, tragic story because they are simply not
going to get it. This story isn't complex nor is it deep. It is all, really, just much ado about
nothing. I enjoyed the book, one; because I could understand what was going on
throughout the whole thing, and two; because the writing is funny and it kept me
entertained. So, Id really recommend it to anyone.
Average customer rating:
- mrs.depp
- Matt Jones' Much Ado Review
- Katie A gbcs
- Another Love Story
- Much Ado About Nothing.
|
Much Ado About Nothing [Region 2]
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Similar Items:
- The Taming of the Shrew (The New Folger Library)
- Twelfth Night: or, What You Will (Signet Classics)
- As You Like It (The Pelican Shakespeare)
- The Merchant of Venice (The Pelican Shakespeare)
- Othello (The Signet Classic Shakespeare)
ASIN: B00004TZU5 |
Amazon.com
Kenneth Branagh's 1993 production of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing is a vigorous and imaginative work, cheerful and accessible for everyone. Largely the story of Benedick (Branagh) and Beatrice (Emma Thompson)--adversaries who come to believe each is trying to woo the other--the film veers from arched wit to ironic romps, and the two leads don't mind looking a little silly at times. But the plot is also layered with darker matters that concern the ease with which men and women fall into mutual distrust. Branagh has rounded up a mixed cast of stage vets and Hollywood stars, among the latter Denzel Washington and Michael Keaton, the latter playing a rather seedy, Beetlejuice-like version of Dogberry, king of malapropisms. --Tom Keogh
Customer Reviews:
mrs.depp.......2005-12-12
Much Ado About Nothing was a very well written play. It was a much lighter reading than Antigone and I think I liked and understood it better too. It was still hard to read and understand but I think the movie and actually seeing it being acted out helped a ton. I really didn't understand a lot of what was going on in the garden scene when they are trying to get Beatrice and Benedick to think they both love each other. So I was a little bummed when our group chose that to do the skit. But then as you read and actually break down the words it was actually very easy and fun to figure out what it means.
I think Shakespeare's main point in writing was to show people how funny love is. He has done tons of serious works and I think this was a great piece that kind of gave you a breath of fresh air. I think that was one of the reasons for writing this. To give the people who were coming to see it something a little lighter. I think this because the play focused a ton on the comedy of love. How you can get to people who started out hating each other to like each other.
I surprised myself in this question. I came into this play thinking that I will not like and I would not understand it. Although one of those statements is true the other one was false. I loved this script. In the beginning I thought it could show me nothing about my life or teach me anything and I was completely wrong. From this play I learned to not judge a book (or play) by its cover. I mean this literally. I came into this with a bad attitude and I realized that instead of doing that I should of had a good attitude and I could have enjoyed it more. Also in Beatrice and Benedick's situation they thought they could never like each other and they ended up falling in love. Some of the people I thought I could never be friends with I am very close friends with now.
Another thing it taught me was to not believe everything I hear. When Claudio heard that Hero was having an affair with someone he got mad and disgraced her and everyone thought she was a horrible person. But she never did and she really loved Claudio. I am a very big gossiper and I now realize how much they can hurt people.
I would totally recommend this script to others. Although you may think you can't learn much from it you really can. I would suggest, though, watching the movie after you read each act. It makes them so much easier to understand. Without the movie I think I would completely be lost and not understand the book at all. Also I would go into reading the book with a good attitude thinking that this can help you because if you don't, like me, you will wind up more confused than ever.
Matt Jones' Much Ado Review.......2005-12-08
This play was a particular relief of your average Shakespeare play, in that it is not a deep philosophical piece of literature. I personally loved reading this play and it does have many interesting values and lessons that one could learn and apply. In several instances I found myself laughing out loud just reading the script. Over all I would say that this is yet another one of Shakespears timeless classics that can still very easily be applied in almost every persons life today. Shakespeare wrote this play, as I believe, to show people how stupid they are and the foolish things that they do when they are in love. I personally do not really enjoy the drama of a love story, but this is a whole different animal.The characters in the story are completely normal citizens of an almost care- free society, but, when love comes knocking at their door they transform into completely zaney lunatics. The characters are, however, people and react in different ways. No matter how they do react it is a far cry from what they normally would do. Indeed, this story shows someone to what great lengths they will go in the name of love. For instance, Benedict, one of the main characters, falls in love with the main female and all of a sudden becomes a quiet, softspoken gentleman, who now cares about his appearance. Whereas before he was an opinionated man, who used sarcasm to get his points across. The story does portray very well what love is, different types of love, and how it is reacted to. This play has taught me many things, especially about women, but most of all it has taught me that there are two very specific types of love and that a person should experience both. One type of love, presented by Beatrice and Benedict is the real heart felt one, where both people know and care for one another and the other was demonstrated by Hera and Claudio. This type is known as "puppy love." Each couple represents their type of love very well and has helped me to realize which sort of love that I have, and have had with other people. This book is well worth whatever they are asking for it. If you really apply yourself you can get alot out of this story. The storyline is very good and lets you feel that you are a part of the story, like you know something that the other characters do not know. It is so involved that I often wanted to strangle some of the characters and tell others some great secret. Then I felt like a retard and stopped myself. This is a very light read and though it is mildly difficult to understand it is easy to understand what point Shakespeare is trying to get across. This story is so good because it teaches so many lessons without having this heavy blanket of philosophy shrouded around it. I would recommend this play to anyone who just simply enjoys a good read. If by chance you read this review, then realize this, I am not exagerrating of making any of this stuff up. This is a really good story without the deep thoughts and questions of life. So, in conclusion, this is just one person talking, but READ THE PLAY! It is really good and worth it, but you do not have to take my word for it.
Katie A gbcs.......2005-12-08
William Shakespeare's play "Much Ado About Nothing" was an extremely funny piece of literature. I thought that it was very cleverly planned out and humorously executed. With Dogberry and his men constantly mixing up words and their meanings it gave the readers a comic relief. The deceit and mistaken identities added so much humor to the already capturing story.
I believe that Shakespeare's main point in writing this play was to show that many times, people get worked up over simple miscommunications. You mishear something wrong, or in your anger, you tune out someone before getting all the facts. All that we would need to do to fix a certain problem would be going to the source of the information, but many times we take the easy way out. We jump the gun a little and choose to believe whatever is told to us despite our gut feeling that the information is wrong.
An example of this would be when Leonato has heard of Hero's scandalous evening with Borachio. Despite the fact that she is his daughter and he would know her better than anyone, Leonato believes the lies told about Hero. Leonato, being her father and the one who raised her, should have known his daughter well enough to know that she would not dishonor her fiancé and herself. Especially the night before the wedding that she has been waiting for. Instead of choosing to believe his daughter, who firmly denies any and all sexual relationships, he joins Claudio, Don John, and Don Pedro in disgracing her.
One lesson learned from "Much Ado About Nothing" is never should people automatically assume something to be correct. We should "take everything with a grain of salt"- test everything. People in the world these days are so willing to lie to us and readily do so without a second thought. Many times people are lied to without even knowing that someone has done so. True, sometimes the lying and deceit is all in good fun, but it still has the possibility of hurting someone. Even innocent lying has its consequences.
Benedick and Beatrice both believed almost immediately that what they had overheard their friends saying in the garden was correct and completely true. Neither person decided to test what they had heard. To see if what was said was true. Because both did not check to see if the information they heard was correct, everything worked out. Both assumed what they had heard was true and acted on it. There were no visible consequences. What a mess you would have if Benedick decided that what he had overheard could not possibly be true. Beatrice would have made a fool out of herself while thinking that Benedick felt the same way. The same could be said the other way around.
I would recommend this play to other readers. If people don't like to read, then I would not tell others about it. The combination of not liking to read and the difficulty of understanding Old English would not make a very fun and pleasurable read. Many would miss out on the humor and cleverness that Shakespeare brilliantly displayed to his audience. Readers on the other hand would most likely like this play. The humor and lightheartedness makes it an enjoyable play. I found myself constantly wanting to know what would happen next and how it would end- how Shakespeare would wrap it up. The happy ending was also a nice touch. Yes, the Old English adds a challenge to the reading. The sometimes hard to understand language makes you stop and think about what Shakespeare is trying to say and ultimately makes you stop and realize what he is truly trying to communicate to his audience.
Another Love Story.......2005-12-08
"Romeo, Romeo! Where for art thou Romeo?" Wait a minute, wrong play! In my opinion, Much Ado about Nothing was a very funny book/play and I somewhat enjoyed reading it. The only bad part about it is that it was a chick flick (or in its case a chick play). The old English also took away from the play sometimes. However, for the most part it was understandable. Overall, I believe Shakespeare probably had a reason for writing the play other than just for pure entertainment.
Much Ado about Nothing is a classic Shakespearian type play. It is a comedy about two young couples. One couple is Benedick and Beatrice. At the start of the play they are in love with one another, they just do not know it yet. They are constantly bickering and fighting with each other. The other couple Hero and Claudio, who are madly in love with each other (or so they think) plot to make Benedick and Beatrice realize that they are in love with each other. They also have help in the form of Leanato, Don Pedro, Margaret and Ursula. Meanwhile, Don Pedro's evil brother Don John along with his henchmen, Conrade and Borachio, plot to break up Hero and Claudio. The plan nearly succeeds, and the rather unusual constable Dogberry and his somewhat merry men must come to the rescue of Claudio's and hero's relationship.
As I said before, the main point of Shakespeare writing the play was probably for more than entertainment. I believe he also wrote it because he wanted to show how crazy love can make a person. In the play, Beatrice and Benedick fall in love with each other. After Claudio shames Hero, Beatrice was so upset that she asks that Benedick kills Claudio. Now that presents a problem because Benedick and Claudio are good friends. At first, Benedick is very reluctant to do this. So reluctant that he refuses to do this. After she says she will not love him any more Benedick immediately agrees to kill Claudio. Even though I would probably do the same thing in Benedick's position, it is still amazing what love can make you do.
Surprisingly, I actually learned something from this play. It's the simple fact that assumptions are very, very dangerous. Thanks to Don John and his henchmen's evil plot, Claudio thought that he had seen Hero cheating on him with Borachio. In reality, it was Margaret and Borachio that he saw. Acting on only what he saw, he shamed Hero and "killed" her.
In the end, it was another happily ever after moment. Personally, I expected a better ending, but that's just me. Yes, I would recommend this book but I myself did not love it. Too much love, not enough action and drama. However, it was very funny, especially the constable Dogberry (my favorite character in the book/play). Also the plot was well developed so that kept my interest. Overall, it was good and worth reading. I would give the book/play 8.11 out of 10. You would probably like it so go buy and read it. Great play, but it's just not for me.
Much Ado About Nothing........2005-12-08
Throughout the last couple of weeks, my class has been studying much ado about
nothing. Shakespear was an amazing writer in my opinion. He is able to write so little, yet
get his entire, deep point across. The play was called much ado about nothing because
throughout the entire play there was fighting and crying and decieving.. and for what?
Nothing. I beleive that i learned a lot from it. Not only about Shakespeares sytle of
writing, but about love too. To answer the question whats shakespeares purpose for
writing, i had to think carefully. But I beleive that his point of writing was to show the
real meaning of love. Throughout the entire play, there were people loving each other and
not knowing it, and loving each other but not knowing each other.. and it was just a huge
mess. Claudio and Hero had "love at first site" but Claudio beleived what he thought he
saw Hero doing on a roof, which proves that he didnt know her as well as he should to
love her. So I think that Shakespeare makes you wonder if their love was true or not. This
story had many values in it that one could learn. I, personally learned something very
important to which I had not seen before- How easily people mistake love for lust. An
example of this would be when Claudio and Hero met. They had no idea who each other
were, not even something as simple as their names, yet they were "in love". I do not see
how you can possibly be in love with someone from first site. That is called lust. I also
learned something very important to which I had not seen before- How stupid people act
when they are in love. An example of people acting weird and stupid when they are in
love would be Benedict and Beatrice. At first, they hated each other. The play starts out
with them being cruel, rude, and sarcastic to one another and the reader knows there is
something between them. Then, when they are both deceived and told that they love one
another, they start prancing around like fairies. Although this is funny, it is very weird
and confusing at the same time that their emotions towards each other can just change
automatically. Another example would be at Claudio and Hero's second wedding. After
all of this love talk, when their love is put out into the public, they start to deny it and say
they are just friends. Love makes them act so weird, but they end up deciding to be
together which I believe is for the good. This play is not extremely hard to understand, yet
has a meaningful story. It is written in old english so that is probably the most difficult
thing to understand about it. I would recommend it to someone who could use a good
laugh because of all the comic relief in it. There is loads of sarcasm and its written in an
interesting way. After all, it is Shakespeare. I would not, however, recommend this book
to someone who is expecting a deep, poetic, tragic story because they are simply not
going to get it. This story isn't complex nor is it deep. It is all, really, just much ado about
nothing. I enjoyed the book, one; because I could understand what was going on
throughout the whole thing, and two; because the writing is funny and it kept me
entertained. So, Id really recommend it to anyone.
Average customer rating:
- mrs.depp
- Matt Jones' Much Ado Review
- Katie A gbcs
- Another Love Story
- Much Ado About Nothing.
|
Much Ado About Nothing
Starring: Chris Barnes , Kate Beckinsale , Brian Blessed , Richard Briers , and Richard Clifford
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
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Similar Items:
- The Taming of the Shrew (The New Folger Library)
- Twelfth Night: or, What You Will (Signet Classics)
- As You Like It (The Pelican Shakespeare)
- The Merchant of Venice (The Pelican Shakespeare)
- Othello (The Signet Classic Shakespeare)
ASIN: 0767802608
Release Date: 1998-01-20 |
Amazon.com
Much Ado About Nothing is probably the most satisfying, and certainly the liveliest and most charming, of Kenneth Branagh's Shakespeare films. The witty badinage between Branagh and his then-wife Emma Thompson, as Benedick and Beatrice, is as bright and sunny as the golden sunlight that shines on the Tuscan villa where the picture was shot. This production--and don't ask about the plot, just remember the title--is an ebullient celebration of art and artifice, culminating in a joyous dance, and performed at a brisk pace by an all-star cast, including Denzel Washington, Robert Sean Leonard, Keanu Reeves, and Michael Keaton. --Jim Emerson
Customer Reviews:
mrs.depp.......2005-12-12
Much Ado About Nothing was a very well written play. It was a much lighter reading than Antigone and I think I liked and understood it better too. It was still hard to read and understand but I think the movie and actually seeing it being acted out helped a ton. I really didn't understand a lot of what was going on in the garden scene when they are trying to get Beatrice and Benedick to think they both love each other. So I was a little bummed when our group chose that to do the skit. But then as you read and actually break down the words it was actually very easy and fun to figure out what it means.
I think Shakespeare's main point in writing was to show people how funny love is. He has done tons of serious works and I think this was a great piece that kind of gave you a breath of fresh air. I think that was one of the reasons for writing this. To give the people who were coming to see it something a little lighter. I think this because the play focused a ton on the comedy of love. How you can get to people who started out hating each other to like each other.
I surprised myself in this question. I came into this play thinking that I will not like and I would not understand it. Although one of those statements is true the other one was false. I loved this script. In the beginning I thought it could show me nothing about my life or teach me anything and I was completely wrong. From this play I learned to not judge a book (or play) by its cover. I mean this literally. I came into this with a bad attitude and I realized that instead of doing that I should of had a good attitude and I could have enjoyed it more. Also in Beatrice and Benedick's situation they thought they could never like each other and they ended up falling in love. Some of the people I thought I could never be friends with I am very close friends with now.
Another thing it taught me was to not believe everything I hear. When Claudio heard that Hero was having an affair with someone he got mad and disgraced her and everyone thought she was a horrible person. But she never did and she really loved Claudio. I am a very big gossiper and I now realize how much they can hurt people.
I would totally recommend this script to others. Although you may think you can't learn much from it you really can. I would suggest, though, watching the movie after you read each act. It makes them so much easier to understand. Without the movie I think I would completely be lost and not understand the book at all. Also I would go into reading the book with a good attitude thinking that this can help you because if you don't, like me, you will wind up more confused than ever.
Matt Jones' Much Ado Review.......2005-12-08
This play was a particular relief of your average Shakespeare play, in that it is not a deep philosophical piece of literature. I personally loved reading this play and it does have many interesting values and lessons that one could learn and apply. In several instances I found myself laughing out loud just reading the script. Over all I would say that this is yet another one of Shakespears timeless classics that can still very easily be applied in almost every persons life today. Shakespeare wrote this play, as I believe, to show people how stupid they are and the foolish things that they do when they are in love. I personally do not really enjoy the drama of a love story, but this is a whole different animal.The characters in the story are completely normal citizens of an almost care- free society, but, when love comes knocking at their door they transform into completely zaney lunatics. The characters are, however, people and react in different ways. No matter how they do react it is a far cry from what they normally would do. Indeed, this story shows someone to what great lengths they will go in the name of love. For instance, Benedict, one of the main characters, falls in love with the main female and all of a sudden becomes a quiet, softspoken gentleman, who now cares about his appearance. Whereas before he was an opinionated man, who used sarcasm to get his points across. The story does portray very well what love is, different types of love, and how it is reacted to. This play has taught me many things, especially about women, but most of all it has taught me that there are two very specific types of love and that a person should experience both. One type of love, presented by Beatrice and Benedict is the real heart felt one, where both people know and care for one another and the other was demonstrated by Hera and Claudio. This type is known as "puppy love." Each couple represents their type of love very well and has helped me to realize which sort of love that I have, and have had with other people. This book is well worth whatever they are asking for it. If you really apply yourself you can get alot out of this story. The storyline is very good and lets you feel that you are a part of the story, like you know something that the other characters do not know. It is so involved that I often wanted to strangle some of the characters and tell others some great secret. Then I felt like a retard and stopped myself. This is a very light read and though it is mildly difficult to understand it is easy to understand what point Shakespeare is trying to get across. This story is so good because it teaches so many lessons without having this heavy blanket of philosophy shrouded around it. I would recommend this play to anyone who just simply enjoys a good read. If by chance you read this review, then realize this, I am not exagerrating of making any of this stuff up. This is a really good story without the deep thoughts and questions of life. So, in conclusion, this is just one person talking, but READ THE PLAY! It is really good and worth it, but you do not have to take my word for it.
Katie A gbcs.......2005-12-08
William Shakespeare's play "Much Ado About Nothing" was an extremely funny piece of literature. I thought that it was very cleverly planned out and humorously executed. With Dogberry and his men constantly mixing up words and their meanings it gave the readers a comic relief. The deceit and mistaken identities added so much humor to the already capturing story.
I believe that Shakespeare's main point in writing this play was to show that many times, people get worked up over simple miscommunications. You mishear something wrong, or in your anger, you tune out someone before getting all the facts. All that we would need to do to fix a certain problem would be going to the source of the information, but many times we take the easy way out. We jump the gun a little and choose to believe whatever is told to us despite our gut feeling that the information is wrong.
An example of this would be when Leonato has heard of Hero's scandalous evening with Borachio. Despite the fact that she is his daughter and he would know her better than anyone, Leonato believes the lies told about Hero. Leonato, being her father and the one who raised her, should have known his daughter well enough to know that she would not dishonor her fiancé and herself. Especially the night before the wedding that she has been waiting for. Instead of choosing to believe his daughter, who firmly denies any and all sexual relationships, he joins Claudio, Don John, and Don Pedro in disgracing her.
One lesson learned from "Much Ado About Nothing" is never should people automatically assume something to be correct. We should "take everything with a grain of salt"- test everything. People in the world these days are so willing to lie to us and readily do so without a second thought. Many times people are lied to without even knowing that someone has done so. True, sometimes the lying and deceit is all in good fun, but it still has the possibility of hurting someone. Even innocent lying has its consequences.
Benedick and Beatrice both believed almost immediately that what they had overheard their friends saying in the garden was correct and completely true. Neither person decided to test what they had heard. To see if what was said was true. Because both did not check to see if the information they heard was correct, everything worked out. Both assumed what they had heard was true and acted on it. There were no visible consequences. What a mess you would have if Benedick decided that what he had overheard could not possibly be true. Beatrice would have made a fool out of herself while thinking that Benedick felt the same way. The same could be said the other way around.
I would recommend this play to other readers. If people don't like to read, then I would not tell others about it. The combination of not liking to read and the difficulty of understanding Old English would not make a very fun and pleasurable read. Many would miss out on the humor and cleverness that Shakespeare brilliantly displayed to his audience. Readers on the other hand would most likely like this play. The humor and lightheartedness makes it an enjoyable play. I found myself constantly wanting to know what would happen next and how it would end- how Shakespeare would wrap it up. The happy ending was also a nice touch. Yes, the Old English adds a challenge to the reading. The sometimes hard to understand language makes you stop and think about what Shakespeare is trying to say and ultimately makes you stop and realize what he is truly trying to communicate to his audience.
Another Love Story.......2005-12-08
"Romeo, Romeo! Where for art thou Romeo?" Wait a minute, wrong play! In my opinion, Much Ado about Nothing was a very funny book/play and I somewhat enjoyed reading it. The only bad part about it is that it was a chick flick (or in its case a chick play). The old English also took away from the play sometimes. However, for the most part it was understandable. Overall, I believe Shakespeare probably had a reason for writing the play other than just for pure entertainment.
Much Ado about Nothing is a classic Shakespearian type play. It is a comedy about two young couples. One couple is Benedick and Beatrice. At the start of the play they are in love with one another, they just do not know it yet. They are constantly bickering and fighting with each other. The other couple Hero and Claudio, who are madly in love with each other (or so they think) plot to make Benedick and Beatrice realize that they are in love with each other. They also have help in the form of Leanato, Don Pedro, Margaret and Ursula. Meanwhile, Don Pedro's evil brother Don John along with his henchmen, Conrade and Borachio, plot to break up Hero and Claudio. The plan nearly succeeds, and the rather unusual constable Dogberry and his somewhat merry men must come to the rescue of Claudio's and hero's relationship.
As I said before, the main point of Shakespeare writing the play was probably for more than entertainment. I believe he also wrote it because he wanted to show how crazy love can make a person. In the play, Beatrice and Benedick fall in love with each other. After Claudio shames Hero, Beatrice was so upset that she asks that Benedick kills Claudio. Now that presents a problem because Benedick and Claudio are good friends. At first, Benedick is very reluctant to do this. So reluctant that he refuses to do this. After she says she will not love him any more Benedick immediately agrees to kill Claudio. Even though I would probably do the same thing in Benedick's position, it is still amazing what love can make you do.
Surprisingly, I actually learned something from this play. It's the simple fact that assumptions are very, very dangerous. Thanks to Don John and his henchmen's evil plot, Claudio thought that he had seen Hero cheating on him with Borachio. In reality, it was Margaret and Borachio that he saw. Acting on only what he saw, he shamed Hero and "killed" her.
In the end, it was another happily ever after moment. Personally, I expected a better ending, but that's just me. Yes, I would recommend this book but I myself did not love it. Too much love, not enough action and drama. However, it was very funny, especially the constable Dogberry (my favorite character in the book/play). Also the plot was well developed so that kept my interest. Overall, it was good and worth reading. I would give the book/play 8.11 out of 10. You would probably like it so go buy and read it. Great play, but it's just not for me.
Much Ado About Nothing........2005-12-08
Throughout the last couple of weeks, my class has been studying much ado about
nothing. Shakespear was an amazing writer in my opinion. He is able to write so little, yet
get his entire, deep point across. The play was called much ado about nothing because
throughout the entire play there was fighting and crying and decieving.. and for what?
Nothing. I beleive that i learned a lot from it. Not only about Shakespeares sytle of
writing, but about love too. To answer the question whats shakespeares purpose for
writing, i had to think carefully. But I beleive that his point of writing was to show the
real meaning of love. Throughout the entire play, there were people loving each other and
not knowing it, and loving each other but not knowing each other.. and it was just a huge
mess. Claudio and Hero had "love at first site" but Claudio beleived what he thought he
saw Hero doing on a roof, which proves that he didnt know her as well as he should to
love her. So I think that Shakespeare makes you wonder if their love was true or not. This
story had many values in it that one could learn. I, personally learned something very
important to which I had not seen before- How easily people mistake love for lust. An
example of this would be when Claudio and Hero met. They had no idea who each other
were, not even something as simple as their names, yet they were "in love". I do not see
how you can possibly be in love with someone from first site. That is called lust. I also
learned something very important to which I had not seen before- How stupid people act
when they are in love. An example of people acting weird and stupid when they are in
love would be Benedict and Beatrice. At first, they hated each other. The play starts out
with them being cruel, rude, and sarcastic to one another and the reader knows there is
something between them. Then, when they are both deceived and told that they love one
another, they start prancing around like fairies. Although this is funny, it is very weird
and confusing at the same time that their emotions towards each other can just change
automatically. Another example would be at Claudio and Hero's second wedding. After
all of this love talk, when their love is put out into the public, they start to deny it and say
they are just friends. Love makes them act so weird, but they end up deciding to be
together which I believe is for the good. This play is not extremely hard to understand, yet
has a meaningful story. It is written in old english so that is probably the most difficult
thing to understand about it. I would recommend it to someone who could use a good
laugh because of all the comic relief in it. There is loads of sarcasm and its written in an
interesting way. After all, it is Shakespeare. I would not, however, recommend this book
to someone who is expecting a deep, poetic, tragic story because they are simply not
going to get it. This story isn't complex nor is it deep. It is all, really, just much ado about
nothing. I enjoyed the book, one; because I could understand what was going on
throughout the whole thing, and two; because the writing is funny and it kept me
entertained. So, Id really recommend it to anyone.
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