Shakespeare wrote
Much Ado About Nothing
towards the middle of his career, sometime between 1598 and 1599. It was first published in quarto in 1600 and later collected into Mr. William Shakespeare's Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies in 1623. The earliest recorded performance of
Much Ado About Nothing
was performed for the newly married Princess Elizabeth and Frederick the Fifth, Elector Palatine in 1613.Shakespeare's sources of inspiration for this play can be found in Italian culture and popular texts published in the sixteenth century. Gossip involving lovers deceived into believing each other false was often spread throughout Northern Italy. Works like Ludovico Ariosto's
Orlando Furioso
and Edmund Spencer's
Fearie Queene
also feature tricked lovers like Claudio and Hero. Besides these similarities, the idea of tricking a couple like Benedick and Beatrice into falling in love was an original and unusual idea at the time.The play focuses on two couples: upon the noblemen's return to Messina, Claudio and Hero quickly fall in love and wish to marry in a week; on the contrary, Benedick and Beatrice resume their verbal war, exchanging insults with each other. To pass the time prior to the marriage a plot to trick Benedick and Beatrice into falling in love has been set in motion. Unbeknownst to both our couples, a fouler plot to crush the love and happiness between Hero and Claudio has also begun to unfold.This Standard Ebooks edition is based on William George Clark and William Aldis Wright's 1887 Victoria edition, which is taken from the Globe edition.Perfect for readers who love Shakespeare's brilliant wit and timeless exploration of love's complexities! This beloved comedy delivers unforgettable characters, sparkling dialogue, and a masterful blend of romance and humor that has captivated audiences for over 400 years. Experience the magic of one of the Bard's most entertaining plays where love conquers all through deception, wit, and ultimate redemption.