'Much Ado About Nothing' is one of Shakespeare's most popular plays. It is an absorbing romantic comedy as two couples find themselves in farcical situations as lies are spread and treacherous plots are enacted. The story revolves around Claudio and Hero who are to be wed and Beatrice and Benedick who refuse to reveal their true feelings to each other. The arrival of the villainous Don John threatens to destroy these couples as a masquerade ball provides him with the opportunity to sow distrust. Tragedy strikes as Don John's deceit plagues the couples and they must overcome his wickedness and rekindle their love. 'Much Ado About Nothing' portrays Shakespeare's standing as one of the finest dramatists and humourists in English literature. The dialogue between Beatrice and Benedick in particular is full of wit as they constantly duel with their words. The tension rises throughout the play as suspicion spreads amongst the characters until it reaches a violent climax as the truth is unmasked. The theme of gender conventions and the different social behaviour expected of honourable women and men remains as relevant today as when it was written. The combination of Shakespeare's humour and lyrical prose makes this poignant play the perfect read for fans of Oscar Wilde. 'Much Ado About Nothing' was adapted into a movie in 2012 by Joss Whedon, director of 'The Avengers' and 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' starring Nathan Fillion.
