Much Ado About Nothing

By: William Shakespeare

Published by Simon and Schuster, 1995

The authoritative edition of Much Ado About Nothing from the Folger Shakespeare Library—the most trusted Shakespeare series for students, educators, and general readers—offers a complete, accessible resource for exploring one of William Shakespeare’s best-known romantic comedies.

A favorite on stage and in classrooms, Much Ado About Nothing presents two contrasting love stories: the impulsive romance between Hero and Claudio, threatened by deception from the scheming Don John, and the witty, slow-burn relationship between Beatrice and Benedick, whose verbal sparring conceals deep affection. Set in Elizabethan England, this richly layered comedy combines mistaken identity, honor, betrayal, and emotional redemption.

This Folger Shakespeare Library edition features the highly praised side-by-side format with explanatory notes and language guides—ideal for students and anyone new to Shakespeare’s plays. Edited from the best early printed text, this edition includes:
· The exact text of the printed play for easy reference
· Hundreds of hyperlinked notes for fast navigation
· A modern introduction to reading Shakespeare’s language
· Scene-by-scene plot summaries and analysis
· A guide to Shakespeare’s most famous lines and phrases
· A new essay by Gail Kern Paster, offering a contemporary perspective on the play
· Rare archival images from the Folger Shakespeare Library’s world-renowned collection
· An annotated guide for further reading and research

The Folger Shakespeare Library, located in Washington, DC, is home to the largest collection of Shakespeare materials and serves as a hub for scholars and fans alike. With public exhibitions, performances, and educational programs, the Folger is an unparalleled resource for appreciating Shakespearean drama in the modern age.