Synopsis

Act I

The people of Messina gather to receive Don Pedro, Benedict, and Claudio, who have returned triumphant after a military victory.  Leonato, the governor of Messina, arrives to greet the victors. He is accompanied by his daughter, Héro (Claudio’s fiancée), his niece, Béatrice. Héro and Claudio reunite happily while Béatrice and Bénédict trade witty insults. Bénédict swears publicly that he will never marry.

Later, at Léonato’s estate, Claudio and Don Pedro hatch a plan to trick Bénédict into marrying Béatrice. Aware that Bénédict is within earshot, Léonato tells the men that Béatrice is hopelessly in love with Bénédict.  When Bénédict hears this, he resolves to pursue Béatrice. Meanwhile, Héro and her maid Ursule play a similar trick on Béatrice, making her believe that Bénédict is secretly in love with her.

Act II

In honor of Claudio and Héro’s impending wedding, Léonato hosts a masquerade party at his estate.  Somarone, the local music tutor, leads the group in song and dance. Everyone is in good spirits except Béatrice, who realizes that she has fallen in love with Bénédict who is nowhere to be found. Just as she turns to leave the party, Benedict appears. The two awkwardly converse, attempting to conceal their love for each other. 

A notary arrives to marry Claudio and Héro and, as arranged by Léonato, asks if there might be a second couple in the crowd who would also like to be married.  Bénédict declares his love for Béatrice, who finally reciprocates. The party guests celebrate a double wedding.