Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy about deception.

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Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy about deception. In this play we discover that there are different types of deception: - good deception and bad deception. Good deception is deception based on good intentions and the outcome is constructive. Bad deception is deception based on bad intentions and the outcome is destructive. The whole of Act IV Scene I is based, entirely, on deception and deceptive plots that were laid earlier on in the play. Don John’s plot to thwart Claudio reaches its climax. Don John’s plan is an example of bad deception because from the beginning of the play, he wanted to destroy Claudio.

“If I can cross him any way, I bless myself every way.” (Act I Scene III Line 62- 63)

From the beginning he wishes to thwart Claudio. His plan succeeds and brings with it a very destructive outcome. He deceives Claudio about Hero’s loyalty and in turn, Claudio deceives Leonato and everybody that has gathered at the church for the wedding. Claudio deceives Hero and Leonato by turning up at the church, giving a false impression that the wedding will continue. He then goes on to deceive everybody about Hero’s innocence by making a big scene and announcing in front of everybody that he will not marry Hero because she has been unfaithful. Claudio’s talk about deception in this scene is in fact ironic because he himself has been deceived, but not by the person he is accusing. However, Claudio’s dialogue about deception was genuine because he spoke about what he knew to be the truth.

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Claudio takes full advantage of the fact that all eyes are on him and that he has the chance of getting revenge on Hero. His first word is ‘No.’ Attention is attracted to him, and this is exactly what he wants. The setting is quite informal; they are all staying in Leonato’s house. Everybody knows each other; this is not their first encounter. He wants to shame Hero in front of everybody. Most of his first words a very simple, short commands. “No.” “Stand thee by, friar” He gives Hero the third degree; He overrides Leonato; he tells the friar ...

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