Much Ado About Nothing

Written by William Shakespeare

Narrated by Matt Montanez

Much Ado about Nothing is generally considered one of Shakespeare's best comedies, because it combines elements of robust hilarity with more serious meditations on honor, shame, and court politics.

The play includes two quite different stories of romantic love. Hero and Claudio fall in love almost at first sight, but an outsider, Don John, strikes out at their happiness. Beatrice and Benedick are kept apart by pride and mutual antagonism until others decide to play Cupid.

An Author's Republic audio production.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Author's Republic
• Release date: Sep 26, 2017
• ISBN: 9781518967610

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was born in April 1564 in the town of Stratford-upon-Avon, on England’s Avon River. When he was eighteen, he married Anne Hathaway. The couple had three children—an older daughter Susanna and twins, Judith and Hamnet. Hamnet, Shakespeare’s only son, died in childhood. The bulk of Shakespeare’s working life was spent in the theater world of London, where he established himself professionally by the early 1590s. He enjoyed success not only as a playwright and poet, but also as an actor and shareholder in an acting company. Although some think that sometime between 1610 and 1613 Shakespeare retired from the theater and returned home to Stratford, where he died in 1616, others believe that he may have continued to work in London until close to his death.

Reviews for Much Ado About Nothing

[Shiella D. · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Much Ado About Nothing is a delightful comedy penned by William Shakespeare. Set in the picturesque Italian town of Messina, this timeless play follows the romantic entanglements and comedic misunderstandings of its colorful cast of characters.

[Kaleb Daniels · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Renowned for its sparkling wit and comedic dialogue, "Much Ado About Nothing" is filled with memorable lines, clever wordplay, and humorous situations that continue to entertain audiences centuries after its initial performance. Shakespeare's keen sense of humor and mastery of language shine through in every scene.

[Murielle · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"Much Ado About Nothing" is a popular choice for students and scholars studying Shakespearean literature, offering ample opportunities for analysis, interpretation, and discussion.

[Roldan Mamaspas · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

From the quick-witted Beatrice and Benedick to the bumbling constable Dogberry and the lovestruck Claudio and Hero, the play is populated with a rich ensemble of characters, each with their own quirks, flaws, and charms. Shakespeare's masterful characterization brings each figure to life, captivating audiences with their antics and emotions.

[Shiembie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Much Ado About Nothing unfolds against the backdrop of a witty battle of words and wits between the sharp-tongued Beatrice and the equally witty Benedick. Amidst their banter, a series of misunderstandings, deceptions, and romantic intrigues ensue, leading to a series of hilarious and heartwarming events.

[R. Michael Markham · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

This audiobook does not do justice to this play. Monotone and boring. I could only manage the first act then switched to LibriVok which saved the play for me.

[Arthur Carpenters · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

At its core, "Much Ado About Nothing" explores themes of love, deception, and mistaken identity. Through its various plot twists and turns, the play offers insights into the complexities of human relationships, the power of gossip, and the transformative nature of love.

[Perry Mcdonalds · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Much Ado About Nothing is a timeless comedy that continues to delight and entertain audiences with its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and timeless themes. Whether experienced on stage, in film adaptations, or on the page, it remains a beloved classic of English literature and a testament to Shakespeare's enduring genius.

[kenny · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Despite being written over four centuries ago, "Much Ado About Nothing" remains remarkably relevant to contemporary audiences. Its exploration of love, jealousy, honor, and the nature of perception continues to resonate with audiences, offering timeless insights into the human condition.