Act 3 scene 4

How has Beatrice changed in this scene from her previous behaviour? Identify sexual jokes the girls make in this scene.

Beatrice has changes her attitude towards the idea of relationships; she is confused by her feelings for Benedick and will no longer partake in Margaret’s bawdiness as she no longer thinks it an appropriate conversational topic to be discussed with other women.  Beatrice is also excessively defensive about claims of her and Benedick ‘Benedickus’. She is oversensitive and scared of admitting her feelings. Margaret makes several remarks of a sexual nature ‘the heavier for a husband’ could refer to sexual relations between a man and his wife or could be a reflection on Hero’s heavy heart on the account of her upcoming marriage.

What is the ‘Carduus Benedickus’ referred to in this scene? And what does Beatrice take this to mean?

Carduus Benedickus is a thistle plant known for its healing properties; a remedy for the heart is most common. Which Beatrice takes this to mean that they believe her to be lovesick and is most outraged by this accusation as she does not yet know her true feelings.

Are we deceived by Margaret’s humour?

Margaret is a distraction from the attention drawn to Hero for her ‘uneasiness’ and the upcoming public shaming that the audience are aware of. The Bawdy nature of Margaret’s humour acts as comic relief for this situation.