Deception

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DECEPTION

Introduction

The theme of deception threads its way through the play on different levels, and is highlighted by the use of imagery of fashion, disguise and masking. Ideas about making mistakes, things not being what they seem and language confusing rather than clarifying all creates a perspective of human fallibility, which links to the overall message to the play - that men are subject to inconsistency and changeability.

  • S portrays the theme of deception through the character of Don John and his malevolent schemes to cause disorder.

When Don John is introduced, he says he is 'not a man of many words'. This shows the reader that from the outset, we see Don John as a mysterious and cryptic man, foreshadowing the future. This is also ironic as Don John speaks significantly less than the other main characters of the play - yet makes the most impact of the plot of the play. When making mischief, Don John tells Claudio that his brother is 'enamored on Hero'. This tells the audience that Don John told Claudio this with the intent to create disorder.  Claudio states that 'friendship is constant in all other things save in the office and affairs of love'. This shows the reader that Claudio was easily decieved by Don John and Borachio, emphasising the precariousness of a mans trust and how easily they can be influenced and manipulated. The phrase 'affairs of love' tells the reader that Claudio thinks friends cannot be trusted when it comes to love. 

Don John also causes disorder through the deception of wether Hero is honourable or not. Don John states that he 'cannot help what [he is], [he is] a plain dealing villain.' This tells the reader that Don John has the intent to destroy Hero and Claudio's relationship. The word 'villain' further emphasises his wickedness and the true evil of this malevolent scheme. He plans to 'cross this marriage' between Claudio and Hero and will 'endeavour any any thing [...] Only to despite them'. This tells the reader that he will do anything and everything to spite Claudio and Hero. The word 'endeavour' is often linked with the completion of a brave task. This is ironic as Don John's scheme does not benefit anyone and is paradoxical to being good in any way

  • S presents attitudes towards deception through the outcomes and consequences of Don John's schemes, and how the characters react.

Hero is told to fake her death because of self-preservation and to reclaim reputation and honour, but in doing so - decieves everyone. Leonato states that 'death is the best way to hide her shame', suggesting that the only way they can recover Hero's honour is through death. The word 'hide' hints towards deception as they would be concealing and hiding the truth about her alleged death. This plan works as when Hero dies, Claudio states that 'thy image doth

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