Finding Hercules in Much Ado About Nothing :: Much Ado About Nothing Essays

William Shakespeare, one of the greatest writers of all time, uses Hercules as a persona of excellence throughout his play, "Much Ado About Nothing".   Hercules, in Greek mythology, is a hero known for his strength, courage and legendary adventures.   This gives the impression that Shakespeare liked the tales of Hercules.      In order for us to understand what he meant by using Hercules' name and amount of background would need to be known. The first time Shakespeare uses Hercules name is with his character Benedick.   This takes place in Act two, Scene One: Benedick:  Ã‚   "...I would not marry her though she were endowed with all that Adam had left him before he transgress'd.   She would have made Hercules have turn'd spit, yea, and have cleft his club to make the fire too."   Shakespeare uses this to connect with the one of the tales of Hercules.   When a centaur (part man and horse) by the name of Nessus captured Deianeira, Hercules shot the centaur with a poisoned arrow.   With the centaur's dying breath he gave Deianeira a vial of his poisoned blood telling her she could use it to rekindle Hercules' love for her if it ever faded.   Hercules fell in love and married Deianeira (Hercules second wife).   One day when she felt that his love was fading, she made him a robe that was dipped in the blood of the centaur.   When Hercules received the gift from his wife he was overjoyed and put it on, almost immediately his skin started to burn and he caught on fire.   The club that is mentioned is Hercules' weapon.   Benedick says Beatrice would harm him, even if he used a weapon, he wouldn't be able to stop her, even though she may not mean any harm. Shortly after Benedick spoke of Hercules, Don Pedro mentions his name but for good use instead of the unhappy end of Hercules. Don Pedro:  Ã‚   "...I will in the interim undertake one of Hercules' labours, which is, to bring Signior Benedick and the Lady Beatrice into a mountain of affection th' one with th' other.   I would fain have it a match, and I doubt not but to fashion it if you three will but minister such assistance as I shall give you direction.