Question.3370 - Watch the movie Much Ado About Nothing,* produced by Kenneth Branagh. Review the movie with an emphasis on how assumptions move the plot; record your reflections and choose two assumptions to focus on in this posting. Identify each assumption, who makes it, and how it impacts the storyline. (Note: There are two films on this page, so scroll down to see the one you need.) You may access the full text script of Much Ado About Nothing from these two websites: Much Ado About Nothing (Complete works of Shakespeare from MIT's The Tech) Click here to access the full-text script from MIT Much Ado About Nothing (OpenSourceShakespeare, George Mason University Click here to access the full-text script from George Mason University
Answer Below:
Kenneth Branagh's version of Shakespeare's play shows how assumptions are the driving plot throughout the play. Two assumptions which are very easy to see are when Claudio is very certain that Hero is infidelity and Beatrice's assumed feelings that Bendick has about her. Firstly, Claudio, whom Don John influences, assumes that Hero has been unfaithful to him. This assumption is based on deceptive appearances and false evidence orchestrated by Don John. Claudios belief in Hero's infidelity is demonstrated during the wedding scene, where he publicly humiliates Hero, accusing her of being disloyal (Much Ado About Nothing: List of Scenes, n.d.). This assumption astoundingly impacts the storyline, causing a temporary rift between Claudio and Hero, leading to misunderstandings and dramatic confrontations. The resolution of this conflict hinges on the revelation of truth, highlighting the destructive power of empty assumptions. ?Secondly, Beatrice assumes that Benedick holds feelings for her after overhearing a staged conversation designed to trick her into believing so. This assumption, part of a playful scheme devised by friends to bring Beatrice and Benedick together, leads to a heartwarming subplot. Upon hearing these manipulated conversations, Beatrice's attitude towards Benedick softens, and she begins to reciprocate the feelings (Much Ado About Nothing: List of Scenes, n.d.). This assumption, despite being based on deceit, drives the subplot showing evolving relationships and leads to positive outcomes and personal growth, instilling a sense of hope in the audience. ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? These assumptions, leading to conflict and other romances, underscore the central theme of the film in terms of appearance and reality. Claudio's assumptions bring to light how trust can be broken, while Beatrice's assumptions show the power of belief and expectation. Both scenarios demonstrate how assumptions can shape human interaction and drive the narrative in an unexpected and intriguing direction. Through examining these assumptions, we gain a deep insight into the characters' motivations and human nature. ??????????????????????????????????????????? ReferenceMuch ado about nothing: List of scenes. (n.d.). https://shakespeare.mit.edu/much_ado/index.htmlMore Articles From Others