Maan + Stereotypes

Since this was a comedy... there were definitely stereotypes involved. However, I believe the general theme of the play, also since it is a comedy is to let things go, not to judge people maybe just a few laughs here and there (for example at Dogberry). One of the stereotypes I believe is against females. Back in this time period there was a huge stereotype against women, in that they were just meant to be wives and not educated thinkers, scientists, mathematicians etc. However in this play, besides the fact that the women actually don't do much, Shakespeare shows that people shouldn't be judged drastically.

Another stereotype that is commonly expressed in good humor is class/intelligence. Dogberry for example is an extremely dumb person and is not exactly in a high class position either. There are definitely stereotypes against him, from Leonato and others but they just laugh it off which expresses Shakespeare's theme of "doesn't matter." Also you don't see lower class people besides Dogberry talk to much, as if they shouldn't. Overall Shakespeare meant to tell people not to judge people in a bad way, only a humorous way if any way.

LIESSSSSS...

Many of the characters in the play Much Ado about Nothing engage in lying, especially Benedick and Don John. Both of these characters are my primary examples for this question. Both have different types of lying, one good one bad. Benedick ofcourse is the one with acceptable lying and humorous lying. "Nor will you not tell me who you are?/Not now" (II.1.103-104). Benedick is humorously lying, not for maliciousness or destruction, just out of plain fun and jokes. This could be an example of a "white lie" which is not bad in general.

Don John on the other hand, uses his lies for evil and bad things (where he gets the name "the bastard" from). The bastard attempts to ruin the potential love between Claudio and Hero, "He is/enamored on Hero. I pray you, dissuade him from her" (II.1.134-135). As shown, Don John uses his lies for evil and to break people apart. This is when lies are considered bad.

So should all lies be considered a bad/naughty thing to do? No. How would the would be like without sarcasm?!?!?! the answer is it would suck. So lies are definitely ok if you use them for jokes and good humor. However if you use them like the bastard, you will be considered a "bad" person. Or perhaps a bastard.