Benedick is a nobleman of Padua and a fellow soldier and close friend of Don Pedro and Claudio. Initially, he expresses his firm intention to remain a bachelor forever and is disgusted by Claudio's desire to marry. He engages in witty and combative dialogue with Beatrice whenever he meets her, and there is the suggestion that they have been romantically involved in the past. His intention to remain unmarried changes as a result of Don Pedro's plan to make Beatrice and Benedick fall in love with each other. When Hero is publicly accused, Benedick is one of the only male characters who does not immediately believe the charges against her. He is also the only soldier entrusted with the knowledge that Hero is actually still alive. Benedick challenges his friend Claudio, at Beatrice's request, for the shaming of Hero, but he and Claudio are reconciled when the truth is revealed.
"I will live a bachelor"
1.1.230
Title: Lord of Padua
Sex: male
Some Audio Tracks
Hometown: Padua
Job: Soldier, serving under Don Pedro (Prince of Aragon) Count Claudio (A lord of Florence)
Often called: “the prince’s jester” or “Signor Mountanto”
Personal philosophy: “One woman is fair, yet I am well. Another is wise, yet I am well. Another is virtuous, yet I am well. But till all graces be in one woman, one woman shall not come in my grace.” (2.3.25-28)
Interests: “the drum and the fife ... a good armour...” (2.3.14-16)
