A Battle of Wits (Much Ado About Nothing)

Themes: Comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare
Length: 1 Minute
Gender: Female

[Beatrice, having overheard a conversation about Benedick’s love for her, stands alone in the garden, her expression a mix of surprise and contemplation. Her tone shifts from incredulity to a tender resolve as she decides to accept and return Benedick’s love, showing her softer, more romantic side beneath her usual sharp wit.]

What fire is in mine ears? Can this be true?
Stand I condemn’d for pride and scorn so much?
Contempt, farewell! and maiden pride, adieu!
No glory lives behind the back of such.
And, Benedick, love on; I will requite thee,
Taming my wild heart to thy loving hand:
If thou dost love, my kindness shall incite thee
To bind our loves up in a holy band;
For others say thou dost deserve, and I
Believe it better than reportingly.