# Scene V explained — Much Ado About Nothing

> Chapter companion for Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Leonato is approached by Dogberry and Verges, who attempt to report the capture of two criminals but are so verbose and confused that Leonato, in a hurry for his daughter's wedding, tells them to handle the examination themselves and bring him the report.

## Themes in this chapter

### Folly and Comedy

Dogberry and Verges' malapropisms and circular dialogue provide comic relief and highlight the theme of folly.

### Appearance vs. Reality

The watchmen have actually captured the real villains, but their bumbling presentation makes them appear foolish, obscuring the truth.

## Character check-ins

### Leonato

In a hurry to attend Hero's wedding, he brushes off Dogberry and Verges' report.

### Dogberry

Attempts to report the capture of two 'aspicious persons' but is long-winded and confusing.

### Verges

Supports Dogberry's report but adds little clarity.

### Messenger

Arrives to summon Leonato to the wedding.

## Key lines

> Marry, sir, I would have some confidence with you that decerns you nearly.

Sir, I wish to speak with you about a matter that concerns you closely.

_Dogberry's malapropism: 'confidence' for 'conference' and 'decerns' for 'concerns'._

> Comparisons are odorous: palabras, neighbour Verges.

Comparisons are odious; enough words, neighbor Verges.

_Dogberry's malapropism: 'odorous' for 'odious' and 'palabras' (Spanish for 'words') to mean 'no more talk'._

> Our watch tonight, excepting your worship’s presence, ha’ ta’en a couple of as arrant knaves as any in Messina.

Our watch tonight, with all due respect to you, has captured a couple of as thorough rogues as any in Messina.

_Verges reports the capture of Borachio and Conrade, though his phrasing is muddled._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/much_ado_about_nothing_se/chapters/act-iii-scene-v
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/much_ado_about_nothing_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/much_ado_about_nothing_se/chapters