Nutshell Summary

Our story begins in Messina. Leonato, the governor, and Beatrice, his niece, arewaiting for Don Pedro, a prince, to return from a successful battle. A messenger informs them that Don Pedro will be accompanied by Benedick and Claudio, two young nobles. Beatrice seems interested in this news and Leonato mentions a “merry war” between Benedick and Beatrice, suggesting they have a history of banter and sparring.