Source: "The Command 'Kill Claudio' in Much Ado About Nothing," in English Language Notes, Vol. IV, No.3, March, 1967, pp. 181-83.
[In the essay below, Smith explains why Beatrice's command "Kill Claudio" is important, concluding that this command represents "the climax of the development of
Beatrice's and of Benedick's character. " He notes that, first, the command indicates that both Beatrice and Benedick have reached a point at which neither is as self centered as they had been at the beginning of the play. Secondly, the command indicates that the two are no longer a pair of duelists in frothy wit, but have become more serious individuals. Thirdly, because it represents the Union of Beatrice and Benedick, the command stands at the climax of the plot of Much Ado. Finally, the command emphasizes that honor.....
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