Now that the plot, sources, and basic names are out of the way, I’m beginning to map out the direction of the discussion of Much Ado About Nothing. As a purely brainstorming exercise (meaning some of these might find their way into the blog, some may not, and others elbow their way in), here’s what I’ve got so far:
(note: these are but notes to myself, so they may seem a little cryptic…)
- the five wits
- a concordance dive (nothing? noting? listen/hear?)
- fashion
- family dynamics: the Messina household
- family dynamics: two brothers
- title
- the use of antilabes
- character disappearance
- off-stage but on-screen
- PLUS the usual discussions of
- stage direction via dialogue
- stage direction via verse
- BAWDY!
- midpoint
It’s a pretty small list for now… have any ideas? Offer them up in the comments below!