Shakespeare’s use of parallel characters in Much Ado About Nothing        Amelia Coen 11th Grade

A key element in Shakespearian comedy is the use of parallel characters; Shakespeare invites the audience to compare and contrast, often using characterization and language to highlight the similarities and differences between the characters in the play. In particular, Shakespeare draws attention to these parallels to track character development, as often demonstrated through Beatrice and Benedick. Misunderstandings between the characters are a common occurrence within comedy, often revolving around the antagonist of the play. In Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare uses contrasting characters to highlight these misunderstandings, enhancing the overall comic structure of the play. It is speculated whether this use of parallel characters is solely to entertain or whether Shakespeare attempts to convey serious concerns through a representation of the hierarchical society within the play. This essay will argue that Shakespeare often invites the audience to compare and contrast gender stereotypes to benefit the comic atmosphere surrounding the romantic plots, whilst simultaneously satirizing a commonly-held view of Elizabethan women.

One major concern that Shakespeare comments on through his use of parallel characters is the idea of...