Much Ado About Nothing Relationship Analysis

What components are most important to a healthy relationship? Some argue that spending time together, being forgiving, and showing affection for each other create the best partnerships, and these elements may be necessary. However, the most vital piece in the puzzle of a good relationship is communication. Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare proves that conversation is essential to a positive relationship. This theme is shown by the relationships of Hero and Claudio, Beatrice and Benedick, and Don Pedro and Don John.

Claudio and Hero’s issues with trust could have been prevented with clear communication. When Don John tells Claudio that Hero has been cheating on him, the thought of discussing the problem with Hero doesn't even cross

As the illegitimate brother, Don John is bitter about not receiving any inheritance; however, he never tells anyone about his feelings or other opinions. As Beatrice says, “[Don John] is too like an image, and says nothing (Act II, Scene i).” Because Don John never communicates, Don Pedro can’t tell how negative Don John’s outlook is, and therefore cannot comfort him or make him feel welcome in social circles. However, the lack of serious discussion between the brothers is not all Don John’s fault, because Don Pedro doesn't make much effort to converse with Don John--at least not on stage.

Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca said, “One of the most beautiful qualities of true friendship is to understand and to be understood.” The only way to truly understand another person is to communicate with them. Three different partnerships in Much Ado About Nothing show that interaction is vital to a healthy relationship. Humans need communication in all stages of an alliance, whether they are future friends saying “hello” for the first time or old comrades catching up after a long separation. Without communication, there is no relationship at