Much Ado about Nothing Chapter Summary & Analysis - Act 2, Scene 2 Summary

Act 2, Scene 2 Summary

This scene, which occurs in a room at Leonato's house, begins with Don John and Borachio discussing the failure of his scheme to break up Hero and Claudio. Borachio proposes a new plot to stop the marriage, however, which Don John embraces with enthusiasm.

Borachio's plan involves Margaret, Hero's friend and lady-in-waiting. Borachio proposes that he and Margaret enact a scene at Hero's bedroom window the night before the wedding to be witnessed by Don Pedro and Claudio. He suggests that Margaret pretend she is Hero, and profess her love for Borachio following an apparent romantic encounter. The resulting stain on Hero's honor, he reasons, will be enough to stop the marriage.

Don John praises Borachio's plan, and promises his henchman 1,000 ducats (gold coins) if it succeeds.

Act 2, Scene 2 Analysis

This scene introduces another favorite Shakespearean trick – a false scene witnessed by other characters. Don John shows his desire to create...
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