Example Of Essay On Much Ado About Nothing Reading Response

Much Ado about Nothing is a comical and romantic story about the courtship of two couples. Despite the dated setting of lords and ladies in the midst of a war, the relationships between the characters, specifically Beatrice and Benedick, are relatable to the reader because of their timeless humor. I feel that this play, although better seen than read, is a witty and interesting story of love that can be easily related to in the modern world.
In Much Ado about Nothing, the ideal way to understand this play is to see it performed by actors on a stage. Just like other Shakespearean works, Much Ado about Nothing is intended by the author to be performed, rather than simply read. Actually seeing the play can help the reader (or viewer) to understand the language and relationships within the play. For example, the comical and witty banter between Beatrice and Benedick is intended to be fast-paced and funny. Yet, when the exchanging of lines between these characters is being read, it can be difficult to understand the comical meaning behind it. Therefore, I believe that this play would be better understood when it is seen on stage, rather than read.
Within the play, the setting and language are dated and can seem confusing to the reader. This proves to be a challenge when reading the play. While in today’s world, there are many wars being fought, society is often removed from the action and drama of the war. Additionally, the presence of lords and princesses was common in Renaissance culture, but in today’s world, it is not a commonly understood practice. Despite these difficulties in understanding the context and setting of the play, the overall story line and character relationships are relatable for the modern reader.
I feel that numerous relationships between the characters in Much Ado about Nothing could be easily transferred into modern life. This helped me understand the story better because I was able to relate to the types of relationships that the characters had. For example, one relatable friendship within the play was between Benedick and Claudio. While early in the play they seem like close friends, their relationship quickly changes as Benedick’s love for Beatrice grows. I think that this relationship is relatable to today’s world because I have experienced many situations where a new romantic relationship challenges the bond between friends. This is a theme within the play that is timeless and helps the reader to better understand the story. Another example of a relatable relationship is the one between Benedick and Beatrice. Within their romance with one another, they often joke and poke fun at each other. I think this is very relatable because many people today use sarcasm and humor to develop a stronger relationship.
Overall, I believe that Much Ado about Nothing is a witty and engaging play that can easily keep the reader’s attention. I greatly enjoyed the humorous banter between Beatrice and Benedick and think that it is a fundamental part of the play because it helps develop the relationships between the characters and keeps the reader engaged. Although the context of the play may be difficult to relate to, the relatable relationships between the characters is understood and enjoyed. In summation, Much Ado about Nothing is an interesting and captivating play that transcends centuries with its timeless themes and relationships.