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Gender Roles In Much Ado About Nothing By William Shakespeare

809 Words4 Pages

In Shakespeare's time period, gender roles were viewed strongly where men would do almost anything to be “the man” while women usually stayed quiet. His play, Much Ado About Nothing, was a romantic story that contained genuine developing relationships centered on love. The antagonist, Don John, was jealous of the love around him and sparked turmoil that tested the loyalties and bonds of the other characters. In Much Ado About Nothing by Shakespeare, the character Leonato contains the societal mindset of needing a distinguished reputation most highlighted by his sacrifice to send Hero into isolation to avoid shame and maintain his relationships with other honorable men. The meaning of the play as a whole was about love and it’s different forms. …show more content…

First, Benedick is described as “a lord to a lord, a man to a man, stuffed with all honorable virtues”; a reflection of Leonato. This is one character that Leonato forms a relationship with and builds ties with. By surrounding himself with other men of his statute, Leonato is giving himself an upper hand. The minor male characters in play have less interaction with Leonato due to them being able to hold the same status as he. Second, Leonato tells Don John “being reconciled to the Prince your brother, I owe you all duty”. Leonato demonstrates friendliness and accommodates guests who he may know personally or know of based off of their reputations. Although he isn’t familiar with the Prince’s brother, Leonato’s assumptions of who Prince would keep company guided his kindness to opening his home. Third, Leonato supports the marriage between Claudio and Hero after envisioning himself in Claudio. Claudio is another respected fellow that is now wanting a familial relationship with Leonato. So far, Leonato has made decisions on who to surround himself with and who he gives respect to. Giving his blessing is a major sign of respect that Claudio received without a second thought. Leonato’s actions provide an understanding that he is a strong advocate on having networks with the other characters and building on those relationships with

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