Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. Plays (Oxford University Press)

One of William Shakespeare's most beloved and oft-performed comedies, "Much Ado About Nothing" is the story of two headstrong young lovers who are brought together...almost entirely against their will. Returning from victory in war, the Italian Prince Don Pedro and his officers - including the veteran Benedick and the young Claudio - are enjoying a well-deserved vacation at the sprawling estate of Leonato, the Governor of Messina. Claudio becomes smitten with Leonato's daughter Hero, much to Benedick's disgust. Benedick - despite his teasing pseudo-courtship with the sharp-witted beauty Beatrice - has sworn himself to bachelorhood, prompting Claudio, Leonato and the Prince to try and trick the two lovers into expressing their desire for each other. (Meanwhile, Don Pedro's villainous brother is plotting to drive Claudio and Hero apart, simply for the pleasure of doing so.) Filled with wit, humor, deception and redemption, "Much Ado About Nothing" is a favorite among audience and Shakespearean scholars alike and is presented here in its original and unabridged format

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