Illustration of Hero wearing a mask

Much Ado About Nothing

by William Shakespeare

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Act 3, Scene 2 Summary

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One the eve of Hero and Claudio’s wedding, Don Pedro announces his plan to leave after the ceremony. Claudio offers to join him, but Don Pedro insists that he stays.

Claudio and Don Pedro observe that Benedick has taken on a clean-shaven, tidy appearance, for which they make fun of him.

Benedick takes Leonato aside to have a conversation.

Don John arrives and claims that Hero is unfaithful to Claudio, enjoining the party to witness a stranger entering her chambers that evening. Aghast, Claudio and Don John promise to denounce Hero if Don John’s allegations prove true.

Expert Q&A

What does Benedick observe about grief in Act 3, Scene 2 of Much Ado About Nothing?

In Act 3, Scene 2 of Much Ado About Nothing, Benedick observes that everyone can easily advise others on handling grief, but those experiencing it find it difficult to cope. This sentiment is expressed when Benedick, feeling lovesick for Beatrice, claims a toothache to mask his mood. He notes that only those not experiencing grief can counsel others, a theme later echoed by Leonato after Hero's shaming, highlighting the challenge of overcoming personal grief.

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Act 3, Scene 1 Summary

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Act 3, Scene 3 Summary

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