Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing

A full unabridged edition of William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, written c. 1599 and comprising 22,538 words, all on a single poster print page. Generally considered one of Shakespeare's best comedies, 'Much Ado About Nothing' was probably written in the years 1598-9, as Shakespeare was approaching the middle of his career. Presented in its entirety on a single page, with a beautiful illustration depicting a bride's sorrow amongst the paraphernalia of a joyous wedding, it is a comedy with only a few elements of darkness... and a happy ending. 

One Page Book Details: 

• 27in x 40in Print
• Heavyweight fine art paper
• Readable type size
• Beautiful centrepiece illustration in oil pastels.
• Shipped in a heavyweight tube
• 30-day money back guarantee

Overview of Much Ado About Nothing

Written by William Shakespeare around 1598-1599, the comedic play Much Ado About Nothing marks the middle of the playwright’s long career. Much Ado About Nothing was included as one of the plays in the publication of the First Folio in 1623, and is widely viewed as one of William Shakespeare’s greatest comedies because of its blend of funny moments with deep reflections on politics, morality and shame. Similar to other comedies from Shakespeare, while Much Ado About Nothingtouches on darker themes, it is ultimately a delightful comedy that ends happily for the play’s lovers.

Much Ado About Nothing tells the story of two pairs of lovers, the first being Beatrice and Benedick. Shakespeare’s characters of Beatrice and Benedick are both very clever, and unlike the average stereotypical lovers, behave as adversaries and assert their contempt for love. The relationship between Benedick and Beatrice contrasts that of the play’s other lovers, Claudio and Hero. Where Claudio and Hero fall in love at first sight, and are not afraid confess their love for one another, the relationship between Benedick and Beatrice takes a more interesting path, transforming from witty banter to genuine love, making their story the more compelling of the two.

The drama behind Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing is driven by “noting” (a pun on nothing) – each character’s observation of gossip, which they believe to be true, about their respective partner. Friends of Beatrice and Benedick, recognizing the potential for love, plot to bring the two together. Beatrice overhears gossip about Benedick’s love for her, while Benedick hears a similar rumor concerning Beatrice’s feelings for him. As a result of this interference, the two ultimately confess their love for one another.

The other pair in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing is torn apart as a result of such interference. Manipulated by Don John, Claudio is led to believe Hero has been unfaithful, and denounces her on their wedding day.  A true comedy, ultimately Don John’s treachery is revealed and the two lovers are reunited, celebrating their wedding alongside Beatrice and Benedick.

Though centuries have passed since the first performance, Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing continues to resonate with a modern audience, as the character of Benedick has been portrayed by such notable actors as Kenneth Branagh and David Tennant.