Much Ado About Nothing Benedick Quotes

Benedick

Quote 4

BENEDICK
I would not marry
her though she were endowed with all that Adam
had left him before he transgressed. (2.1.247-249)

It’s notable that Benedick brings up marrying Beatrice, though no one else has even mentioned it. Stating so passionately that it’s not on his mind shows that, actually, it’s on his mind.

Benedick

Quote 5

BENEDICK
No! The world must be peopled.
When I said I would die a bachelor, I did not
think I should live till I were married. (2.3.244-246)

Benedick provides his first reason that marriage is actually quite necessary. Not for love or honor, but because it’s our duty to procreate.

Benedick

Quote 6

BENEDICK
Friar, I must entreat your pains, I think.
FRIAR
To do what, signior?
BENEDICK
To bind me, or undo me, one of them.— (5.4.18-20)

Though he loves Beatrice, Benedick still jokes about marriage, saying he’s not sure that their marriage won’t be his "undoing." This hesitation helps to make Benedick seem a believable character—he isn’t suddenly transformed into believing in marriage simply because he realized he’s capable of love. Again, the disconnect between love and marriage is evident.