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Humour from Benedick’s words and behaviour
Section B – Shakespeare. Much Ado About Nothing. Choose ONE question. You are advised to spend about 45 minutes on this section. In this extract from Act 2 Scene 3, Benedick has been convinced that Beatrice loves him and thinks aloud about this, before meeting her again.
How does Shakespeare create humour from Benedick’s words and behaviour? Refer to this extract from Act 2 Scene 3 and elsewhere in the play.
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What a strong answer needs
- 1 extract focus
- 2 elsewhere
- 3 methods
- 4 context
- 5 SPaG
Full-mark answer
A strong answer would explain how Benedick’s sudden change after the gulling scene creates humour through contradiction, exaggerated logic and self-importance. It would analyse the extract’s soliloquy and exchange with Beatrice, link to other comic moments, and use context about marriage and comic transformation.
Why this answer loses marks
Benedick is funny because he changes his mind about Beatrice.
This identifies the comic situation, but it needs extract detail, links elsewhere, and analysis of Shakespeare’s comic language and behaviour.