In fair Messina, the Governor Leonato is living with his daughter and unwed niece. Hero and Beatrice are fast friends and loving cousins, when the army of Don Pedro, a prince of Aragon, returns through their city the two women meet and celebrate the victory with the prince's trusted men.
Benedick is a familiar face, one whom Beatrice enjoys mocking. The animosity between Beatrice and Benedick is fierce though Shakespeare hints at a prior romance, and their companions believe they're a perfect match. The two, however, are in agreement on the fates of their friends.
Hero and young Count Claudio are in love at first sight. The prince agrees to push Claudio's suit for the shy officer. With Leonato's blessing, all appears to be in order for a wedding.
Enter Don John. Don Pedro's younger brother finds himself sick at the happiness of others. Don John and his followers scheme to convince Claudio the prince is wooing Hero for his own purposes.
While Hero and Claudio attempt to reconcile their feelings with Don John's commentary they help Don Pedro convince Beatrice and Benedick of their suitability.
Originally a play to be performed Much Ado About Nothing is designed as a script to be read either as part of a performance or aloud. Much of the humor is adult-oriented, the story is intended for adults, yet has little objectionable material as much of the action is left to the imagination.
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