The surprise of the play, however, lies in the fact that it is not Benedick and Beatrice who have the greatest difficulties finding true love and communicating with one another. Although Claudio takes the posture of a traditional lover, because his feelings for Hero are based more upon an idealized conception of the 'fair sex' rather than reality, he is quick to believe that she has been unfaithful to him. In contrast, because Benedict and Beatrice have always been able to communicate with one another through verbal jousting and 'war,' they are able to form a mature and trusting relationship.

Interestingly, the romantic relationship between Beatrice and Benedict does begin as the result of a deception. Beatrice is told by her friends that Benedict is pining away for her, and Benedict is told the same by his comrades. However, this trick, unlike the one played upon Claudio by Don John,...
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