Who Don Pedro is
Don Pedro comes to Messina as a prince and military leader, staying with Leonato after a short war. He is generous toward his friends and takes an active interest in their hopes for love.
What Don Pedro wants
When Claudio falls in love with Hero, Don Pedro offers to speak to her on his friend's behalf. At a masked dance, he courts Hero for Claudio, though a rumour briefly makes his intentions seem different.
He also enjoys the challenge of bringing Beatrice and Benedick together, despite their repeated claims to reject marriage. With Claudio and Leonato, he stages a conversation for Benedick to overhear about Beatrice's supposed love.
Don Pedro and the others in the story
Don John is Don Pedro's bitter half brother, and he resents the happiness of Claudio, whom the prince favours. When Don John claims that Hero is deceptive, Don Pedro accepts an invitation to watch for proof.
This trust gives the prince a more troubling side alongside his kindness and playful plans. He helps arrange a loving deception, yet he is also ready to believe a cruel one.
Questions
Who is Don Pedro?
Don Pedro is Aragon's prince, who visits Leonato in Messina with his soldiers.
Why does Don Pedro help Claudio?
He wants to help his friend win Hero and offers to court her for him at the masked dance.