Much Ado About Nothing, Act 4, Scene 2 summary
Act 4, Scene 2 of 17 · 3 min to read the scene
In Act 4, Scene 2, the watchmen testify that Borachio receives money from Don John to accuse Hero falsely, and the Sexton orders the prisoners taken to Leonato. Their evidence gives the accusation an official record, but Dogberry repeatedly confuses legal terms and ends by demanding that Conrade's insult be written down.
What happens
- Dogberry questions Borachio and Conrade, but the Sexton redirects him toward the witnesses.
- The watchmen report Borachio's claim that Don John pays him a thousand ducats to accuse Hero falsely.
- They describe Count Claudio's intention to shame Hero publicly and refuse the marriage.
- The Sexton reports Don John's flight and Hero's death from grief, then leaves to show Leonato the record.
- Conrade calls Dogberry an ass, and Dogberry defends his standing while ordering the prisoners away.
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In this scene
What to notice
The Sexton identifies Dogberry's failure and redirects the hearing toward witnesses. This allows the evidence against the prisoners to emerge.
Quick check
What payment does the watch say Borachio receives for falsely accusing Hero?
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