The use of poetry in the speech made by Beatrice conveys her passion and fiery nature towards Benedick.
“And, Benedick, love on; I will requite thee,
Taming my wild heart to thy loving hand”
Beatrice is clearly exhilarated at the thought of Benedick loving her, the passionate language and broken up phrases that she uses depicts to the reader an almost childlike excitement and amazement.
Benedick however, uses longer sentences and speaks in prose, expressing his awe, and wonder that Beatrice is on love with him. He talks about why Beatrice is so appealing to him; he is almost idolising her. Previously in the play we hear him set ridiculously high standards, for his ideal woman, and now he has discovered that he describing Beatrice.
“They say the lady is fair”
“and virtuous”
“and wise”
Both Beatrice and Benedick appear initially disbelieving at the news they receive; they are both in awe, and they both desperately want to believe that it is true, which is perhaps why the deception played upon them works so well.
“This can be no trick”
“What fire is in mine ears? Can this be true?”
They both resolve not to let their pride come between them. A difficult task for both of them when all previous interactions we have seen between them have been scornful, now, however they are insistent to no longer masquerade there true feelings for one and other behind their stubborn façade of pride.
Despite Benedicks simple language, in comparison to Beatrice’s passionate poetry the audience still receives the impression that he is very much in adoration of her, and that they are both very much in love with each other.
